Hunter-Paul guides Stags back to league summit

Second-placed York had the chance to leapfrog Richard Silverwood’s men and reclaim top spot but Hunter-Paul and the excellent Stags saved arguably their best performance of the season for their biggest test to date.

Forwards Steve Mead, Lewis Hardy, Luke Manning and Wayne Jowett also wreaked havoc throughout.

Mirfield conceded an early try when York front-rower Davey Burns crashed over on eight minutes. Ken Shepherd added the extras.

Elliot Smith replied to go over in the corner for the first of the winger’s two tries.

Ross Hayden missed the conversion and left the field following a dangerous tackle shortly after.

Adam Sellers grabbed York’s second try but Mirfield replied with an outstanding solo try from Smith.

Stand-in kicker Oliver Rounding converted to reduce the half-time deficit to two points.

Back-to-back tries from James Wilson in the first 20 minutes of the second half gave the Stags the lead. Rounding converted his second try and the Stags led 20-12.

Kevin Brayshaw crossed to give York hope before Hunter-Paul danced through several defenders to score between the posts. Rounding converted and added a penalty to give Mirfield a 10-point cushion.

Sellers went over again with five minutes left on the clock to set up a nervy finish but Mirfield held on to claim a priceless win.