LEIGH MINERS, proudly sitting atop the National Conference, began in a hurry against bottom club Heworth.

But they finished in a scramble, beaten 12-8 in the shock of the day as the Yorkshire battlers handed out a lesson in determination.

It all looked so promising as Miners cut out an 8-2 interval lead, Neil McColloch dribbling the ball into position to dive in and score, Winston Sarsfield banging over a couple of goals.

But it could have been much better. Heworth did well to halt the thrusting breaks of props Mick Keegan and Mark Edwards, but Miners continued to pour forward.

Debut packman Lee Stretch, fresh from the U18s, looked good, improving wing Matt Irwin maintained momentum and stand-off Mike Warburton set alarm bells ringing in the defence.

There was more to cheer as hooker Ian Sanderson bubbled in the mud. And, finally, came the break with Heworth looking rattled.

It was, however, a far different story after the break. In the cold and cruel weather the visitors got to grips with the conditions and their rivals to forge clear for a great win.

Miners Alliance beat Springview 25-6 with tries from Jason Seddon, Terry Sutton, Simon Wood and wily hooker Stuart Pugsley. John Davies hit four goals and a drop.

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