York City Knights began their Northern Rail Cup campaign with an upset, beating Championship side Leigh 13-12 at the Huntington Stadium.

After two first-half tries from the Knights' Mike Mitchell, second-half tries from Leigh's Dave Alstead and Dave McConnell levelled the scores.

But acting coach Chris Thorman's late drop goal brought Knights the victory.

"It was a fantastic effort. We're all very proud with the result," assistant coach Mick Ramsden told BBC Radio York.

"They showed grit and determination to come up with the result against a very strong Leigh team, so we're very happy.

"The boys came in at half-time and they were pretty bashed-up. They were very tired.

"Towards the end it did get scary. Leigh were attacking us and we looked very tired, but the effort that went in was fantastic."

Thorman made a major contribution as playmaker as the Knights raked up a 12-2 lead by half-time, but the arrival of half-back John Duffy for Leigh sparked a revival, ended by Thorman's drop goal.

"Chris always shows a lot of composure," said Ramsden. "He's played at the highest level in the world.

"He just did the right play at the right time."

There was still late drama as Leigh kept the ball alive well after the hooter until a frantic last move finally collapsed.

"It was a bit scary, I must say," admitted Ramsden. "There were players sprayed all over the field."

Next up are Sheffield on Sunday (14 February, 1500 GMT). And Ramsden wants the Knights to "put on a similar performance, if not better.

"We're trying to set our standards," added Ramsden. "To beat one of the better teams in the division above sets a good benchmark for us."

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