York Acorn began pre-season preparations in earnest when they won a friendly at Hull Dockers 24-22.

The game was played in four quarters which saw many positional and personnel changes.

The game was mainly played in the forwards with Acorn being well served by Lee McTigue, Ben Hodgson, Carl Stannard, Lee Frank, the evergreen Alan Hebblethwaite and Alex Benn.

National Conference League division two side Acorn sealed the win over the division one outfit with virtually the last play of the game when former coach Hebblethwaite touched down.

Hebblethwaite had helped get Acorn off the mark on 24 minutes, providing a neat pass for McTigue crash over.

Dockers hit back with two converted tries but Acorn scored again when Lloyd brushed aside several tacklers to touch down. Acorn were soon back in front when Kevin Brundett sprinted over, Stephen Waldron converting.

Dockers retook the lead with a converted score but Acorn responded with a gem from Johnny Waldron which made it 18-18.

Dockers crossed but Acorn fought back and battered the hosts' line until Hebblethwaite popped up for the all-important score which Lee Frank goaled for victory.

On Saturday, Acorn entertain East Hull in their annual Wally Crooks Memorial clash (KO 2.30pm).

All players from the first and 'A' team squads are asked to attend tonight's and Thursday's training sessions (6.45pm at Thanet Road) and to meet at the club at 12.15pm on match day.

The club are still looking to strengthen both squads and anyone interested should attend training. Acorn begin their NCL campaign with an away fixture at Eastmoor on August

24.

Updated: 12:03 Tuesday, July 30, 2002