Heworth ARL 'A' put up a valiant effort but their bid to reach the Yorkshire League's Alliance Cup final ended with a 36-12 semi-final defeat to Sharlston 'A'.

Heworth, including seven of their under-18s team, put up an encouraging display against a side fielding four first-teamers.

Gary Watkinson booted Heworth ahead with an early penalty and the Villagers defended superbly for 33 minutes before the hosts scored two converted tries for a 12-2 half-time lead.

Sean Brough scored after the break to give Heworth hope but Sharlston then showed their experience to get on top.

Heworth got a second try through Matt Derry from a Mike Welch pass, Watkinson goaling, but Sharlston led 24-12 and added two late tries against a tiring defence.

Derry, Sean Coulson, Andrew Bird and Danny Sinclair stood out for Heworth and there was a welcome return for Simon Harrison, who did well after a six-month injury lay-off.

TONIGHT'S RL

Northern Rail Cup: Rochdale v Oldham (7.30) Gateshead v Workington (7.30) National Conference Div 2: Stanningley v Huddersfield Sharks (8.00).

Updated: 10:03 Wednesday, March 16, 2005