YORK edged out derby rivals Malton & Norton to take the under-13s rugby union spoils at Clifton Park.

York led 10-5 at the break and 20-12 midway through the second period of this friendly match but were forced to withstand a fightback from the Ryedale side as they secured a 25-19 victory.

The home side got on the scoresheet in the first minute when former Malton back Andre Robson weaved through to touch down for an unconverted try.

Malton produced a carbon copy try to level immediately through Joe Browne.

York soaked up Malt pressure before taking the lead with a try by Barney Baker. The conversion attempt hit the crossbar.

Robson made a break and beat three Malt defenders, but was taken into touch near the half-way line.

Malton struck back early in the second period when they intercepted and broke clear.

An initial scoring attempt was halted by the York defence, but George Austin-Thompson touched down for the visitors and Iain Oakley converted for a 12-10 lead.

Mounting York pressure eventually told when Kinnersley squeezed over in the corner.

Robson and Kinnersley went close for York before Robson made a diagonal dash for the corner, drew the defence and passed to Finn Hockenhull for an unconverted score and a 20-12 advantage.

Malton then caught York napping from a penalty ten metres out from the line and, after three missed tackles by the home side, Eddie Wainibuli crossed and Oakley converted to bring his side back to within a point.

York looked determined after the restart, with some good rucking showing their intent to make amends.

Play moved up towards the Malton try-line and Ben Poskitt dashed through to score.

Both sides worked hard in the last few minutes, but there was no further score.

York coach Ted Barker said: “Congratulations to both sides for a hard-fought, thrilling and tiring match.”

York U13s welcome new players to attend training at Clifton Park on Fridays at 6.30pm.

Anyone interested in joining the squad can phone Barker on 07831 348786.