A last-gasp try by Malton and Norton settled their Tetley Vase round two match against Knottingley, although few could have had complaints if the 10-3 result had gone the other way.

The first half was a dour affair with neither side gaining an inch and although chances did occur at either end but none were taken and the game remained scoreless at the break.

Malton, though unimpressive, came more into the game in the second period and showed more determination. However, Knottingley were able to thwart most efforts to break the deadlock with some resolute defence.

The only chance of a score came midway through the half when Malton were awarded a penalty wide out on the left. Andy Newsome stepped up to calmly slot the ball between the posts to nose Malton in front.

Knottingley then showed more appetite for the game and gradually clawed their way in the Malton 22 where, not for the first time, an unnecessary penalty was conceded and visiting fly-half Mike Stansfield converted a simple chance to level the scores with five minutes remaining.

Straight from the kick-off Malton attacked. Possession was gained in midfield and skipper Chris Creber broke before putting full-back Ian Mansell away to outstrip the covering defence to score a much need try on the stroke of full-time.

Newsome added the extras and Malton progressed to the next round but they will have to raise their game to a higher level if they are to go much further in the competition.

Nestle Rowntrees veterans ran out 31-3 winners as they took on Leodensians.

There were two tries for full-back Harry Seagrave and others to touch down werenumber eight Jim Bell, winger Phil Sargison and fly half Brian Cotton, who added two conversions.

Dave Matthewman, the 51-year-old lock, preserved his 100 per cent kicking record with the final conversion - his previous goal for the club was kicked 19 years ago.

Malton Ladies' went down 32-5 in their first outing of the season against a well drilled Halifax outfit.

The final score does not do justice to a good Malton display in which several ladies showed some exceptional skills. The tackling of Tamsin Greene, Sue Hayhurst and Frances Dolman was excellent and it was only in the final quarter of the game that Halifax took complete control.

The first half ended with honours even at 5-5, Malton's points coming from an excellent Greene try after good work in the backs.

Halifax showed their experience in the second half and ran in five more tries as the home side tired.