LEADERS York RI Ladies maintained their grip on the Women’s North East 2 table with a 24-7 victory over third-placed rivals Harrogate.

Without a game for the past two weeks due to ‘walkovers’ against Scarborough and Bradford in cup and league respectively, the ladies were keen to dust off the cobwebs in the final game of 2016.

Harrogate were strong in defence and quick at turning over ruck but RI made strong carries and number 8 Lauren Van Buuren powered over for the opening try.

RI’s scrums were strong and a quick ball out the back and down the hands led to centre Gemma Webster increasing the lead.

Harrogate continued to apply pressure but the first half ended 10-0 to RI.

Rattled by an injury to fly half Becks Homer, RI lost focus which allowed Harrogate in for a try under the posts.

Fullback Rachel Demoreas made a number of try-saving tackles before captain Shannon Little kicked a pass through the defence and went over for RI’s third try, which was converted by Kirsty Parr.

Harrogate put in some great plays and looked to exploit the width of the pitch but RI’s strong defence held firm. With five minutes left, captain Little went over for her second try, converted again by ;Parr.

RI remain undefeated at the top of the table.