YORK RI RUFC rose to third in Yorkshire Four after a fine 12-5 win at Knaresborough.

RI have now won both their matches since the division was split into the premier and shield sections, but they now face arguably their toughest task as they host a Wibsey side who sit top of the pile with seven wins from their eight fixtures so far against 'premier' opposition.

In the shield section, meanwhile, Nestle Rowntree could only manage two Dave Harder penalties during a 17-6 loss at former National League outfit Halifax.

Having lost 33-7 at Thirsk the previous weekend, Trees were hoping to bounce back, but again succumbed to defeat after another below-par performance.

From kick-off, Nestle knocked on and, after defending well, gave away a penalty for being on the wrong side of a ruck, allowing Halifax the opportunity to go 3-0 up.

Trees bounced back and were rewarded with a penalty after ten minutes from Harder for a high tackle.

But 14-man Halifax were running the ball and scored a fortunate try to lead 10-3.

With the breeze, Trees then started to dominate, but could manage just another Harder penalty before the break to show for a lot of effort.

The second half again saw Trees have more of the play but, with their line-out not working, they had to use a lot of energy for no reward and it was Halifax who scored the only additional points with a converted try on 65 minutes after the visitors had failed to tackle the left winger’s run down the middle.

Nestle are without a game this weekend.