NESTLE Rowntree RUFC conceded an agonising late try as they lost 56-49 at home to Sandal 3rds.

Trees hammered the same opponents earlier in the season, but they faced a different line-up on Saturday.

After a bright start, the home side were caught napping and Sandal broke clear to score a converted try.

The Trees forwards came back to drive for the line, with Ben Morrison crashing over and Dave Harder converting.

Sandal bagged three quick converted tries before Trees full-back Nick Thompson flew over on the half-time whistle to see his team trail 28-14 at the break.

The visitors scored soon after the break before Trees stormed back with tries from Harder, Thompson and Dan Crump, all converted by Harder to make it 35-35.

The lead then changed hands as Harder crossed and Thompson completed his hat-trick, but Sandal got the winning try at the death.