CHRIS THORMAN hailed the enthusiasm in the York City Knights reserves side as they were edged 28-26 by a strong Sheffield 17 last night.

The Knights under-23s were without hooker John Gay due to late work commitments and suffered injuries to an already depleted squad during the game.

They had led 10-8, with tries by Kris Brining and George Elliott, plus an Elliott conversion, but trailed by 14 points in the second half before staging a comeback. Elliott got his second try, plus two more goals, and Adam Howard and Gareth Poutney also crossed.

“We were good,” said first-team player-boss Thorman, who withdrew Brett Turner at half-time - suggesting the half-back might be involved in Sunday's Championship clash with Halifax.

“Their enthusiasm is infectious. We were down to 13 fit players for most of the second half which meant the likes of (forwards) Adam Howard, Jack Stearman and Joe Hemmings didn't get a rest.

“Brett Turner gave us a very good half, and we asked George Elliott to play in a couple of positions to get his hands on the ball more and he had his best game of the season for us.

“They had a committed, positive attitude against a very strong Sheffield side.”