Lock Alan Sparham celebrated his 50th birthday in style by helping Nestl Rowntree RUFC to a 17-0 victory over Selby fifth XV.

Sparham literally had a big hand in the win as his team-mates hoisted up time and time again to disrupt the majority of Selby's line out ball.

Trees also had the edge in the scrums and these helped lay the platform for scores from flanker Jim Baldwin and scrum-half Brian Cottom. Jamie Richardson converted one.

The second half saw Selby come more into the game, with the Trees defence just managing to prevent a score when they held one attack up over the line.

But Nestl sealed the win when centre Mick Lawrence ghosted his way over.

Updated: 11:32 Wednesday, March 13, 2002