York Acorn 'A' secured third place in the Yorkshire League fourth division with a hard-earned 22-20 derby win at Heworth 'A'.

Acorn weren't at their best and Heworth, looking to avenge an earlier heavy defeat by their rivals, nearly pulled off a shock win.

But Acorn just had enough to edge home and set their sights on a top four play-off clash at second-placed Dewsbury Moor 'A' next Saturday.

In a game in which the lead changed hands several times, winger Kevin Brundett's try gave Acorn an early lead. Heworth hooker Eddie Hardcastle responded with a try goaled by Gary Watkinson before Acorn regained the lead when quick handling created the opening for scrum-half Paul Sawyer.

Acorn notched their third unconverted try through centre Kenny Hilton to make it 12-6 but Heworth again hit back with an individual try by impressive loose forward Sam Clarke which Watkinson converted. He then added a penalty to give Heworth a 14-12 interval lead.

Acorn made the perfect start to the second half when Johnny Waldron picked up a loose ball to sprint over from 60 yards and Fox tagged on the goal.

Heworth came back again when centre Wayne Foster charged over for a try which Watkinson converted to put them 20-18 up with 15 minutes to go.

But Acorn weren't to be outdone and substitute Rich Warren stormed in from 20 yards for the match-winning try.

Their place in the play-offs was confirmed when Milford Lions 'A' were unable to raise a side for the trip to Thanet Road, handing Acorn an 18-0 win.

York Groves will be in division five play-off action on Saturday when they travel to Hunslet Old Boys.

Captain Sean Barker took the top award of player of the year at Selby Warriors' end of season presentation.

Wayne Fennel won the players' player accolade, David Sowden was best forward, Andy Rowe was best back, Colin Barker was top try-scorer, Alan Odriscal was best newcomer and Harry Paterson was clubman of the year.

Updated: 13:06 Tuesday, May 22, 2001