HEWORTH showed bags of character to stage a superb comeback and earn their second consecutive 22-20 away victory in a nailbiting contest at Cutsyke Raiders.

In the Yorkshire Men's League division one clash, the Villagers trailed 14-0 at half-time after a below par performance.

But they responded in fine style to post four unanswered tries in a devastating 17-minute period in the second period.

The hosts added a final minute score to ensure a nervy finish, but the Black and Whites held out for a pulsating success.

The home side had much the better of the opening half with some strong running forward play and impressive handling leading to them taking the lead on 14 minutes with a try from full-back Gavin Lightowler, which he improved himself.

On 28 minutes, centre James Cryer gathered a neat chip over the visitors' defence and touched down for a well worked score.

It looked ominous for Heworth when, four minutes later, fellow centre Jon Harvey was on the end of a long passing movement to cross wide out to give the Raiders a 14-0 lead at the break.

The Villagers started the second period in much more determined mood and got themselves back in the match on 57 minutes with second rower Joe Deighton forcing his way over close to the posts and adding the extras.

This galvanised the visitors and five minutes later George Elliott burst through the home defence close to the line and crossed for a try converted by Deighton to make it 14-12.

Heworth took the lead on 66 minutes when hooker Josh Poulter burrowed his way over from acting half-back and Deighton's third goal put them four points in front.

It looked like game over when substitute Liam Jackson put full-back Fraser West through for the Villagers' final try with six minutes remaining.

Cutsyke were not done though, and set nerves jangling with a touchdown from hooker Ryan Wagstaff goaled by Lightowler. However, despite a few heart-stopping moments, the Black and Whites held out for an excellent win.

Poulter was man of the match for Heworth with Jackson and Dave Hayes also prominent.

Elsewhere at the weekend, York Acorn suffered a 30-18 defeat at Pilkington Recs in the National Conference League division one.

In the Yorkshire Men's League premier division, New Earswick All Blacks were beaten 32-26 at home by Nottingham Outlaws.