THATTO Heath Crusaders completed their season at East Leeds with a hard earned 28-24 victory and claimed the Kingston Press National Conference Division 1 title by four points from their nearest rivals Myton Warriors.

Adam Hesketh opened the scoring with a powerful try under the sticks which Shaun Quinn converted.

East Leeds, who were fighting for their survival in the division, belied their position and came back with a converted score before Mike Houghton crossed out wide for a try that took some scoring.

Quinn as he has done all season slotted the extras to take Thatto to a 12-6 lead.

East Leeds hit back again before the break to tie the game up going into half time at 12-all.

Shortly after the restart East Leeds converted an easy penalty but shortly after Adam Prendergast called a fine first season for Thatto with a quality pass which was collected by the flying Kiwi Luis Taylor for a try which again Quinn converted.

East Leeds certainly did not lie down and came roaring back with a well taken score of their won which was converted to tie the game once again. 18-18.

The play of the game saw Thatto switch the ball from right to left through several pair of hands before left wing Niall Allen collected the final pass to dive over. Quinn again converted from the touchline.

The match and the championship was sealed when Leicester sent a superb kick to the corner for Taylor to collect and complete his brace.

East Leeds did respond close to the end with a converted score but Thatto held out and take the title having only lost three games out of 26 played in the league and scoring an impressive 946 points.

Man of the match went to Sean Leicester who was strong again in defence and attack but the whole squad have done the club proud this year and look forward to life back in the Premier League next season where they will join Pilkington Recs.