HOLDERS York RUFC were forced to share the trophy with rivals Sandal after a 14-14 draw in the final of the Under-12s Yorkshire Cup at Clifton Park.

Having missed out to their hosts last season, West Yorkshire visitors Sandal were intent on revenge.

However, York started the stronger and Alastair Browne crossed for the opening try from a five-metre scrum.

Sandal were quick to reply and, after a spell of sustained pressure, they levelled the scores.

York won a lot of ball for the rest of the first half, but conceded again before full-back James Black crossed on the stroke of half-time to level things up.

The second half was very open but neither team managed to score, although York winger Peter Atkin crossed the line but was held up by some excellent defensive work.

Clifton Park played host to a double-header, with the same two teams meeting in the final of the U11s Yorkshire Cup and Sandal denied their hosts with a 28-10 victory.

York went a try down shortly after the kick off and they conceded a second before they managed to find their shape and win some ball.

The rest of the game was quite even, with good running and strong defence from both teams.

Each side scored two further tries, but York were unable to gain an advantage.

The two York teams will be looking to get the better of their West Yorkshire foes tomorrow when they travel to the Sandal Festival.