Ratcliffe try earns dramatic draw for Trojans

A try in the final seconds from full-back Sam Ratcliffe ensured Thornhill salvaged a point, although Andrew Bates had the chance to secure victory with the conversion.

Bates’ kick went high towards the right post but the referee judged it was wide before blowing for full-time.

Thornhill led 26-4 at half-time after tries from Danny Ratcliffe, Luke Palmer, Liam Sarginson, Joss Ratcliffe and a spectacular effort from MoM Mindugas Bendikas, together with three Bates goals, but Dudley Hill showed terrific fighting spirit to turn the game around.

Centre Gav Mezals registered a hat-trick but Adam Bird replied with a try out wide, which Bates converted.

Dudley Hill responded with tries from Connor Vickers and Dale Lee along with a hat-trick from Mezals, who also added two goals, which levelled matters at 32-32.

Bates was wide with a penalty attempt before Carl McGriugan crossed wide out to put Hill 36-32 ahead with four minutes remaining.

From the final play, Danny Ratcliffe chipped to the in goal area and Sam Ratcliffe pounced to score and level but the referee ruled the conversion was off target.

n Thornhill finally play their first home league game of the summer on Saturday when East Leeds visit (ko 2.30pm).

Thornhill’s previous three home games have been cancelled or postponed as Walton and West Bradford both withdrew, while Moldgreen cried off due to illness.