HARROGATE will now face old foes Wharfedale in the semi-finals of the Yorkshire Cup as the Claro Roaders maintained a successful start to their defence of the trophy.

The defending champions booked their place in the last four against the Dalesmen courtesy of a comfortable 25-12 victory over Morley at Claro Road last night.

Despite the accuracy of one-time 'Gate target Colin Stephens with the boot, the home side always had too much fire-power and eased through with a four-try display.

Flanker Steve Hobson and Ed Smithies crossed in the first half, with Lee Cholewa adding one conversion, and although Stephens found his range with two penalties 'Gate led 12-6 at the break.

Stephens continued his kicking form after the interval with two further penalties to tie the scores, but Harrogate stepped up a gear with Yorkshire full-back Smithies and prop Rob Wilson barging their way over the try-line to ensure the win and Cholewa slotting over a successful kick.

Harrogate will now travel to Wharfedale on Tuesday, with Doncaster and Gary Pearce's Hull side squaring up for the other semi-final on Wednesday.

Updated: 11:58 Thursday, May 01, 2003