The University of York men’s hockey side ended their relegation anxieties with a dramatic late 2-1 win over Northumbria.

The result, secured by a composed goal from Andy Harris five minutes from time, lifted York off the foot of the table, ahead of Northumbria and local rivals York St John.

Northumbria took the lead after just five minutes, but York unleashed wave after wave of pressure and levelled through James Branton on the cusp of half-time.

Said York skipper Andy McIlwraith: “The result was as big as Roses (the annual grudge match with Lancaster University), but we should have easily put another three past them.”

The women’s football team completed a league double over county rivals Leeds University with an entertaining 3-2 win.

York raced into a two-goal lead through Sarah Milner’s spectacular free-kick and a self-assured finish from Fiona Wallis.

However, despite being under the cosh, Leeds pulled a goal back three minutes before the break.

But York weren’t to be denied, and a tap-in from captain Jennie England, who had a fine game, on 48 minutes secured the three precious promotion-pushing points.

On the basketball court, the men’s team were outclassed 78-50 by table-topping Sheffield Hallam.

The margin of defeat emphasised the gulf in quality between the two and reflected Hallam’s 12-point advantage.

However, York matched their opponents for long periods and were only four points in arrears shortly before half-time, only for the visitors to pull away.

“We didn’t want it as much as they did,” said Dane Vishnubala, the York captain.

“We started well but the intensity dropped in the second half. We just had no composure in the second.”

By contrast, the women’s team routed Newcastle 83-29 to cement their position at the top of League 3B.

Lydie Mariutto repeatedly weaved through Newcastle’s defence and Claire Dinan was on target adding numerous points.

York have the momentum, having won their last three fixtures, and the superior points difference in their title tussle with Hull University.

Elsewhere, the women’s badminton side drew 4-4 with Northumbria, while the men’s squash team easily overcame Leeds University, winning all five rubbers.

The women’s tennis ranks returned to the championship race with a timely 6-4 win at Sheffield University.