Despite atrocious conditions, York RI gave another sparkling display in defeating fellow Yorkshire Three title hopefuls Barnsley 39-10 at New Lane.

RI opened brightly and took an early lead when flanker Manu Fotu crashed over under the posts. Matthew Yates converted to make the score 7-0.

Then after an exchange of penalties Yates wrong-footed the Barnsley defence to score. His conversion took the score to 17-3.

RI were now in command and extended their lead when Nick Ward, deputising for the injured Tim Barley, was on the end of a flowing handling sequence to score in the corner. Barnsley did briefly come to life when scrum-half Godfrey scored to make the half-time score 22-10.

With the wind in their favour in the second half RI scored further tries by Ward (2), and Richard Carew. Yates converted one to complete the scoring.