VICTORIOUS York RUFC edged closer to the top four in Yorkshire One with a convincing 46-18 home win over Knottingley.

The Clifton Parkers played some excellent attacking rugby, but their defensive play was less impressive and could have made it closer.

York scored four tries during a first half in which they were generally on top and Knottingley found the pace and flair of the home backs difficult to handle.

Billy Cakaunitabua, Sam Potrykus, Charlie Nicholson and Jack Buxton crossed for tries which were converted with some fine kicks from John Dawe, who also got a penalty.

Knottingley had opened the scoring with a penalty goal after indiscipline led to a ten-metre advancement. They added a try when York made a terrible mess of clearing their line for a 31-8 interval scoreline.

York had lost Alex Nixon, who suffered a dislocated kneecap after 20 minutes and will probably miss the next six to eight games.

York lost some of their impetus after the break, despite Knottingley having two forwards yellow-carded for foul play. However, the hosts added tries from Dawe, Jim Mulroney and Cakaunitabua to ensure a bonus-point win.

The visitors added a penalty and a late converted try.

The top of the table clash between leaders Malton & Norton and second-placed Sheffield was postponed due to freezing conditions in South Yorkshire.

Selby’s game against North Ribblesdale was also on ice due to a frozen Sandhill Lane surface.

In Yorkshire Two, in-form Pocklington were stopped in their tracks as West Park Leeds’ pitch was unplayable.

York Railway Institute went down 31-7 at Northallerton in Yorkshire Three, while Nestlé Rowntree were without a game in Yorkshire Five.