HEWORTH veteran Nikki Wilson joined the line-up as the Villagers' old boys team enjoyed a cracking contest with Leeds Masters in a rearranged Elmpark Way fixture.

Heworth fielded a strong masters side with former York City Knights and Hull KR professional and York Acorn favourite Darren Callaghan having his second run-out.

They dominated the early exchanges, but failed to capitalise on the field position, giving away soft penalties to deny themselves the chance to build pressure and get over the whitewash.

Leeds offered some good defence and kicked well for territory but never truly threatened in the first half.

The loss of Paddy Handley (hamstring) and Callaghan (knee) to injury meant a quick reshuffle but former prop Dan Briggs commanded well from stand-off, with props Lambert and Kane creating a solid platform to play off.

A dazed Tyrone Oliver had also made an early exit after a tough tackle, but made it back onto the pitch later on.

Stuart Watson looked comfortable with ball in hand, while full-back Paul Harrison made good yards returning the Leeds kicks, but the visitors muscled up at times to contain Heworth's back line.

Centre Steve Towse finally scored, taking a well-timed pass to cruise in for a half-time lead.

The second stanza saw some more strong defence from both sides and, as Wilson settled into the game, he split the Leeds defence with a deft pass to Towse, who turned the gas on to get around the full-back.

Leeds came back towards the end, with a noteworthy try from Richard Tate, whose good footwork saw him sidestep Callaghan - back on the field - and score under the posts.