Trailing 27-3 at half-time, the visitors contested throughout but conceded four tries in each half with Nuneaton’s Huw Thomas, who played out of position at fly-half, claiming their only points through a first-half penalty.

Winger Danny Smith and flanker Dave Worrall each scored two tries for Yorkshire, whose other points came from centre Kyle Dench, full-back Richard Wainwright, No 8 Nick Sharpe and fly-half Chris Johnson.

“We were always going to be up against it,” said head coach Crofts. “I think if we can keep the core of the squad and build on it, we will have a good squad to bounce back.”

Broadstreet coach Crofts, who was appointed little more than six weeks before the competition, stressed that a more structured preparation next season will be needed. “I like doing this and I owe the county a lot, they were loyal to me as a player and I want to give something back,” he said.

“But there has got to be a professional approach, we need to make early representation to clubs about players and we need to play a warm-up game.

“Despite three defeats, the lads have enjoyed it and our performance has improved each week. It’s been a good experience and they are a great bunch of lads – every one of them has played above their league status.”

Lancashire overwhelmed Northumberland 80-12 to top the group and secure their place in the overall final.

View a Printer Friendly version of this Story.

Bookmark or share this story with:

• Digg
• Delicious
• Facebook
• Reddit
• Stumbleupon