Old Grovians 28 Harrogate Pythons 11

Old Grovians’ director of rugby Martin Whitcombe is looking up the table rather than down after this victory over the side who were promoted with them last season.

“We are seeking a top-six finish,” said Whitcombe, “and that would be a fantastic achievement.

“We targeted 23 points for safety and we now have 35.

“It is going to be a struggle for Skipton and Bramley Phoenix at the bottom.”

Old Grovians fell behind 6-0 to two penalties but were in front at half-time thanks to an Anthony Griffin try and conversion.

The visitors were not in the contest after the interval.

Centre Griffin added a second try, full back Deon Hendricks also crossed and, with the last play of the match, fly half Dom Copsey got the fourth try for the bonus point.

Whitcombe spoke in glowing terms about Griffin, who also kicked the other three conversions.

He said: “He has scored 15 tries for us this season and he is a fantastic player who just gets better every week.”