YORKSHIRE League division three table-toppers Malton and Norton lost 13-12 at Halifax after looking likely to run away with the game.

The visitors began well with their larger pack dominating against lighter opponents and opened the scoring when the ball was spun wide to full-back Ian Mansell who created the overlap to touch down in the corner.

n the half hour Malton were awarded a lineout near the Heath line and, despite the throw going astray, flanker David Cooke was on hand to seize the loose ball and drive over. Andy Newsome converted and Malton looked to be heading towards a fourth straight win.

Heath, however, had other plans. As torrential rain fell Malton still persevered with an adventurous and open game.

With a greasy ball handling errors were inevitable and Heath took the opportunity to disrupt and spoil Malton's game and they hit back with a try after poor Malton defending.

Although still enjoying ample possession Malton's play became more disjointed as the second half progressed and the home side were quick to pounce on any errors.

Their simple tactics paid off Mand after trimming the arrears with a penalty, another Malton blunder in defence was punished as Heath scramble over for their second try to take the lead.

The final minutes were played out with Malton frantically trying to salvage something from the nightmare but it was Heath who justifiably took the spoils.