Wigan have successfully defended their England Schools Under-11s Rugby League tournament title after a thrilling final in York.

York Acorn ARLC hosted the second annual tournament on behalf of York schools, and the final saw Wigan beat Warrington 'A' 24-20 in extra-time, having come back from 20-12 down in normal time.

The competition saw the top teams in each of the three groups qualify for the semi-finals along with the team with the best runners-up record.

Wigan came through Group 'B' containing Bradford, Warrington 'B' and Sunderland, while Warrington 'A' topped Group 'A' comprising hosts York 'A', Leeds and Gateshead.

The York team were just pipped for a semi-final spot. They beat Gateshead 20-0 and Leeds 12-4 but lost to Warrington 'A' 20-0, and Bradford finished with a better runners-up record to go through from Group 'A'.

Leigh headed Group 'C', which also consisted of Castleford, Bradford 'B' and Salford, but then lost to Wigan in the semis, while Warrington 'A' beat Bradford in the last four to set up the grand finale.

A separate competition was held for developing teams, comprising two teams from Gateshead, and one each from York and Scarborough.

The York 'B' team won all their games in this group, including a 12-4 victory over rivals Boro.

Tournament organiser Mike Kilmartin said: "Most of the major rugby league playing areas were represented.

"Competition was fierce at times in all the groups, and the tournament was a success. Thanks must go to York Acorn and everybody who helped."

Updated: 12:01 Wednesday, April 25, 2001