New Earswick ARLC under-16s' season appears to be back on track after a good team display, albeit in an 18-10 defeat at Castleford Panthers.

Dan Atkinson and Jamie Norris went close before good handling resulted in a fine try for Ian Henderson. Great defence by Joe Davis kept Cas out before Henderson forced his way over for a second try goaled by Sinclair.

However, Panthers crossed against the run of play before half-time and, while All Blacks pressed further with prop Bri Wright going close several times, the crucial scores came at the wrong end.

Selby Warriors U13s kept on course for promotion as they were awarded an 18-0 walkover victory when Stanningley cancelled the league fixture.

Selby arranged a tough friendly against Cas Panthers, who are riding high in the division above, and gave a good account, despite falling 18-0 down early on.

They made it 18-18 at half-time, but a three-try burst after the restart gave Cas the victory. Fit-again man of the match Jacob Scales scored a hat-trick for Selby and coach's choice Josh Skilbeck also crossed, while Arran Sharpe (3) and James Morris added goals.

York Acorn U12s gave a good effort in a 12-4 defeat to Whinmoor Dragons.

Stephen Derbishire got Acorn's try from a Ryan Gallacher chip but Whinmoor went 8-4 up before half-time and ran in a third try after the break. Good defence was seen from Martin Brown, Tim Winn and man of the match Nathan Hebblethwaite.

Updated: 10:58 Thursday, February 02, 2006