Heworth 44 Widnes St Maries 14

THE Maries gifted their York hosts with an easy double last weekend by conceding 22 points in as many minutes.

Pacey fullback Gavin Grant opened the account after only two minutes, quickly followed by a brace from hard running loose forward Steve Barnard.

A Carl Barrow try and three Carl Potter conversions ended Heworth's first half scoring.

On the half hour, the Maries woke up and played 10 minutes of scintillating rugby.

Completing only their first set of six they worked their way into the York half for the first time with Premiere Security man of the match, Anthony Hollins, making a superb break with Will Tilleke on his shoulder.

Unfortunately, the move was snuffed out but laid the path for the next move when Adam Flanagan and Ben Smith created the gaps for Karl O'Doherty to break and release Lee Campbell to score out wide.

After a fine move involving the returning duo of Dave Doyle and Tony Hannon, Campbell returned the favours putting in O'Doherty.

After two consecutive sets of six Flanagan and Carl Leach put in the inspirational Hollins for a Darren McKinnon converted try.

Only eight points behind and well on top, it was up to the Maries to score first to pin back their hosts.

However, in their desperation to score, Grant kicked through and won a fortuitous bounce to score his second.

Two quick tries from Kenny Embleton killed off any hopes of a Marie's victory.

They spent the next 30 minutes camped on the Heworth line but despite good effort from several hard working players it was to be the home side's day.

Next Saturday the Conference side entertain Sheffield Hillsborough Hawks, whom they defeated on the first day of the season.

The North West Counties side have a free date due to cup competitions taking place.

Widnes St Maries are running and youth sides from u7s through to u18s next season and welcome any new players, coaches, physiotherapists or general assistance.

Those interested should contact Ste Hunt on 07903-555689 or Martin Ball on 07785-902489.