YORK RI Ladies faced their toughest game yet against Bishop Auckland but secured a last minute 14-14 draw to remain undefeated in North East Two.

Bishop Auckland had registered good results in the last few weeks and RI knew the game would be a challenge.

With RI knocking on the ball at the kick off, Bishop made the most of the possession in RI's half and pressured the defence. After a few phases, Bishop Auckland's number 8 went under the post from close range and converted; 7-0.

RI were not deterred by conceding and, straight come kick-off, made ground in Bishop's half.

Bishop conceded a penalty for not rolling away, which loose head prop Fiona Parr took quickly, and Bishop were penalised again for not being 10 metres and not rolling away.

RI kicked for territory, secured the line-out, and made ground with a driving maul.

Gemma Webster, who played number 9 for the first time for RI, shipped the ball out to the backs for centre Vicki Woodgate to go under the posts and score. Kirsty Parr converted.

The rest of the first half was frantic with both teams turning possession over and making ground yet neither could capitalise on opportunities.

Minutes before the half time whistle, Bishop Auckland turned possession over down the wing and scored under the posts and converted to end the first half with a 14-7 advantage.

Bishop Auckland started the second half strongly and were camped in RI's half. With 15 minutes to play, RI picked up the momentum and were camped in Bishop's half.

Bishop stopped multiple runs by Vicki Woodgate and fullback Rachel Demoreas. In the last passage of play, quick ball at the back of the ruck was shipped out left where Kirsty Parr scored near the touchline.

With the time gone, only the conversion would guarantee RI a draw and some points. Kirsty Parr kept her composure to kick the conversion, which bounced over after hitting the right-hand post.

Bishop Auckland proved they are a much improved side but RI did well to maintain their composure and remain top of the table. They travel to Burnley on Sunday in the latest round of the Junior Plate.