Selby Warriors lifted the York and District Accident Cup after a tense, low-scoring final against York Groves.

Played at New Earswick, it was the Groves' first of two finals and they must be praised for holding their own against higher ranked opposition.

Groves, mid-table in Yorkshire League division five, were the underdogs despite Selby's poor league record of just two wins in 13 games in division two, but they looked the better side for most of the first half.

Both defences stayed on top early on, but Groves finally broke through with a well-taken try by captain Paul Scott. The conversion attempt missed.

Poor conditions did not help either side put any good moves together and fluent rugby was difficult, giving an advantage to the defences.

Selby did break through before the break, however, and went ahead thanks to the conversion which made the half-time score 6-4 in their favour.

The second half turned into a hard physical battle with both sides' defences holding solid throughout.

Both teams were equal in all areas despite the divisional difference, but no more scores were forthcoming throughout the second 40 minutes.

Selby thus held out to become eventual winners by 6-4.

York Groves' efforts did not go wholly unrewarded, however, as their star man, Martin Hodgson, took the man-of-the-match award.

Woolston went top of the National Conference League premier division thanks to a 30-12 victory at Redhill, leapfrogging West Hull who did not play.

The Hull side, however, have four games in hand and are only one point behind.

Leigh Miners lost ground after a shock 12-9 defeat at second-bottom Walney Central, who gave themselves a lifeline in their bid to beat the drop.

Four teams have 32 points at the top of division one, namely Leigh East, who dropped a point at East Leeds, West Bowling, who beat Heworth, Mayfield and Shaw Cross, who were both victorious.

Hull Dockers and Thatto Heath, both winners in division two, continue to fight for that title.

Updated: 11:59 Monday, April 16, 2001