Satisfying success for Halifax

They had been left frustrated after suffering a bonus point defeat at Northallerton, having led 14-7 until the wheels came off.

Halifax showed they had learned the lessons from that defeat as they clinched a much-needed win.

Northallerton’s pack was clearly bigger and their play was built around a mauling game - so much so that their backs were redundant in attack.

Halifax’s forwards largely negated the visitors’ threat up front, with the lineout and scrum functioning well and the defence resolute.

The hosts opened the scoring when Nick Bell crossed after good work from the pack. Richard Cole converted.

Northallerton responded well and had Halifax under pressure. The home defence remained solid until the visitors scored in the corner following a counter attack down the blind side.

Halifax started the stronger after the interval and their pressure was rewarded with a drop goal from Giles Hetherington.

They crossed again when Jack Ryan reached over after the pack had given the hosts go-forward.

Northallerton set up a thrilling finale when they scored a try with 10 minutes to go but relentless tackling from Halifax saw them clinch the win.

Halifax Vandals have an eight point lead over Hessle at the top of Yorkshire Four after a 31-11 home win over Ossett yesterday.

Skipton beat Wensleydale 20-3 in a contest between two of the other promotion contenders.