YORK Schools Under-14 footballers produced a fine performance to earn a 4-4 draw at big-city rivals Leeds.

Danny Cates opened the scoring for York with a well-taken header against a Leeds team looking to avenge a 1-0 defeat earlier in the season.

York's lead lasted only a few minutes with Leeds levelling, but the equaliser sparked York into life and Adam Scorefield powered home a free-kick before adding another to give his side a 3-1 lead.

Leeds pulled one back on the stroke of half-time to set up a thrilling second half. Soon after the break York had extended their lead through George Riley and looked on course for a surprise victory but the hosts fought back to draw 4-4 although York came close to snatching a late winner when Scorefield hit a post from the edge of the box.

Chris Barratt was outstanding in goal for York, who were missing Callum Andrew, who broke his leg just before Christmas, and a couple of other players through flu.

York Schools U15s' first game for over a month ended in a 3-1 defeat at the hands Leeds.

York started the game slowly and went behind on 20 minutes after some sloppy defending. The goal prompted a spell of intense pressure from York but Leeds managed to hold on and increase their lead shortly before the break.

York got back into the game thanks to a tap-in at the far post from Jack Crawley but despite dominating they conceded a late goal to lose 3-1.

York U12s are in cup action at Nottingham on Saturday.

York U12s (at Nottingham in cup): G Catling, T Kite, J McCormick, A Dale, M Yeoman, J Holt, C Binns, J Gabbiadini, A Hudson, J Gore, J Wickham, A Simpson, J Wilstrop, T Platt. Meet at McDonalds on the A64 at 7.30am. Confirm availability and available car spaces to either Matt Gore 07767 24460 or Andy McCormick on 07768448790

Updated: 11:38 Wednesday, January 11, 2006