Malton and Norton gained another two points with a 13-11 win at Northallerton to maintain their unbeaten record in Yorkshire Two.

Northallerton are not an easy side to beat at their sloping Brompton pitch, but Malton should have put the result beyond doubt in the opening quarter.

Twice the threequarters sliced open the home defence and when a try seemed certain either the final pass went astray or the wrong option was taken.

Northallerton were forced to concede a penalty during another Malton attack and Will Barber gave Malton the lead with his kick.

Despite being under pressure in the set-piece, Malton's pack stuck to their task and the opening try came when No 8 James McKay broke free along the left touchline, beating the home winger for pace and guile to touch down and give Malton an 8-0 interval lead.

With the advantage of the slope Malton should have made the running in the second period, but Northallerton scored an uncoverted try.

Malton continued their expansive plan and fine handling gave Ian Cooke the opportunity to open his seasonal account. Despite two late penalties for Northallerton the Malton defence held firm.

Malton's front row of Carl Rushworth, Duncan Humphreys and Tom Piercy were under tremendous pressure but failed to buckle.

Duncan Foster and Andy Mitchell dominated the line-outs and Chris Creber and Tim Chapman were constant threats when in possession.

Spirits are high, and after next weeks Powergen Vase tie at Knaresborough, Malton have two consecutive home games, against West Leeds and Ripon.

Updated: 12:09 Monday, September 16, 2002