NESTLE Rowntree closed the gap on leaders Moortown 2nd XV courtesy of a 24-12 victory over Morley Saxons in a re-arranged YRFU Central and North Merit League division one game.

Trees started brightly and looked to be coping better with the heavy conditions under foot.

The backs, superbly supported by the forwards, made in-roads towards the Morley line and, after 15 minutes, were rewarded with a try for winger Stuart Dickinson, converted by Jack Daniels.

Trees then wasted two or three opportunities to score again because of forward passes.

The second half saw Trees start strongly again and makeshift hooker Mark Thomas darted in for a try converted again by Daniels.

Leading 14-0, Trees seemed to lose all impetus and composure for a period of 25 minutes. This allowed Morley back into the game with two push-over tries.

With the lead now down to two points, Trees suddenly woke up again and stormed back with centre Dave Straker charging through to score. That made it 19-12.

With the determined Alex Robertshaw, as always, tackling everything that moved, Trees pressed on again, also inspired by their captain Greg Neil.

Prop Ben Morrison crashed over for another try to give them a well deserved 24-12 victory over their rivals.

Trees will play rivals Knaresborough next month to celebrate the completion of development work at their Mille Crux base.

The game will be staged at 1pm on Saturday February 4 and will be followed by food and drink at the Black Horse, Monkgate, against a backdrop of Six Nations rugby live on TV.

The club, which is now second in the table, are looking for new players.

Anyone interested should contact 07725 033305.