ROCHDALE Hornets were tested to the full by newly-promoted York City Knights in an exhilarating encounter at Spotland Stadium.

The home team needed a late rally to see off the Knights' stern challenge.

Hornets started strongly, and after three minutes stand-off Sam Butterworth danced through to score, Mark McCully converting.

York hit back with a converted try from Jason Golden, but the home team took control with tries from Tommy Goulden, Chris Giles, and Paul Norman to go into the half- time break leading by 18-6.

York looked a different team after the break, and threw everything at the Hornets. Tries from Neil Law and Paul Thorman reduced the arrears, and a shock looked on the cards.

The home team, though, finally burst into life and Lee Patterson and Paul Owen crossed to seal the win.

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