A FANTASTIC last-ditch tackle by Max Hodgson at the death saved victory for Heworth ARLC Under-11s at Illingworth.

Heworth led 16-12 but the hosts were pressing for a winner. Their full-back then looked destined to score - until Hodgson stepped in.

The Villagers had started well in attack but lost possession on the fifth tackle and the hosts raced away to cross and convert.

But Heworth continued to press and were rewarded when Kai Brownlee spotted a gap and crossed, Myles Harrison goaling.

The next five minutes saw Heworth repel immense pressure from Illingworth, with man-of-the-match Luke Kane and Callum Rut-land leading the defensive effort.

Heworth got some ball again on the resumption and Leon Mooring evaded several tacklers to cross.

Spencer Harris added great defence off the bench and Ben Plevey showed awareness and speed on a pleasing debut.

Then Heworth spread the ball wide and again Mooring crashed over, Rutland goaling. However, the pressure was back on as the hosts scored from a great crossfield kick to set up the tense finale.

New Earswick U11s clinched a fine victory at Garforth Tigers - thanks largely to man-of-the-match winger Jasper Shore, who notched a five-try haul.

Alfie Bonner continued to impress in the forwards, while Jack Saddler took the magic moment award for his quick thinking which brought a try. In defence, top tackler Travis Dale and Joel Grainger impressed in denying the Tigers numerous times, while most improved player William Lea and Lewis Goodwin communicated well.

Thomas Brown was busy, also kicking the extras, while little Billy Dickinson put in some big hits on bigger players.

Conceding two tries in the first two sets proved costly as Heworth U10s lost at Oulton.

The Villagers, through great team spirit, got back into the game and a try from Jay Ogilvie, after strong running from Jamaal Tokalau and Theo Innes, halved the deficit. However, they could not find an equaliser as defences dominated.

Theo Walton was top tackler and Luke Dorking and Tokalau the men of the match.

Heworth U8s nearly took the spoils from a physical encounter at Siddal. The hosts went ahead but after strong running and defence from the excellent Freddie Wilson, top tackler Thomas Hardy and most improved player Jonathan Hartley, Heworth replied through Adam Hodgson (2) and Harrison Barker.

The game stayed tight thanks to great defence from top performers Ellis Cochrane and Kenzie Witty before Siddal bagged two late tries.