NESTL Rowntree won their first game in three attempts against Pocklington Merovin-gians as they sneaked a 23-21 away win.

Nestl had already faced their local rivals twice in the past two months - drawing 3-3 and losing 18-10 - but this time they were celebrating.

Tries from centre John Atkin, No 8 Jim Bell and Craig Norris had given Trees a 15-9 lead at the break, although three Lee Cartwright penalties had kept Pock in touching distance.

The second half opened up as Ivor Jackson slotted over a penalty, only for Pock to hit back through centre Andy Mair.

Atkin re-established the Nestl advantage as he ran in from 60 metres. However, Pock were awarded a penalty try for persistent offside, which Andy Bowden converted to set up a tense final few minutes.

Updated: 11:02 Tuesday, March 11, 2003