STRONG defence and man-of-the- match Ben Atkin’s four tries helped York Acorn ARLC Under-10s beat Wibsey.

Top tackler Ellie Henry led the way, well supported by the improving Ben Lumby.

Tries at the other end, most of which were long-range efforts, came from individual play, the pick being scored by the impressive Josh Parker, who caught a high kick, sidestepped two defenders and sprinted the length of the field.

Parker and Ziggy Dudman both finished with two tries, and Lawrence Lumb one.

Goals were added by Callum McKenzie, Lumby and Lumb.

Harry Griffiths scored a great try and was man of the match as Heworth U9s maintained their 100 per cent record in their latest game.

Jensen Brown scored a brilliant solo try and was the opposition’s choice of man of the match, Jak Ostergaard again topped the tackle count, and Kian Oliver scored two full-lengh tries and took the ‘magic moment’ award.

New boy Charlie Nicholson was the most improved player, and Luke Prenty put in some good tackles on his debut.

Heworth U8s were unlucky to lose by a single try on the last play of the match against Kippax.

Heworth again started slowly and found themselves with a mountain to climb – which they nearly achieved in a second- half fightback.

Captain Callum Rutland took the ‘magic moment’ for his try and all-round tackling performance, while Myles Harrison, who also crossed, was man of the match. Other scorers were Kane Cavanagh and Jack Young, while notable running came from Callum Dunmore and Will Spencer.

Man-of-the-match Travis Dale scored four tries in New Earswick U8s’ excellent win at Crigglestone. Danny Copley also crossed, while Reece Officer, Robbie Gibb Kirk, Joe Harrison and Tommy Naismith stood out.