THATTO Heath Crusaders secured their speedy return to the National Conference Kingston Press Premier League with a superb fightback and ultimate victory over a strong Milford Marlins team in Leeds.

The players and coaching staff where aware this game could have been a banana skin and after 60 minutes those observations where well merited.

Milford had run into a 14- 0 lead with two well taken tries and a penalty all before half time.

The first 40 minutes where very tight on Milford's 3G pitch and the bounce of the ball and decision where definitely not with Thatto.

Adam Hesketh was in the bin only minutes after joining the game for an infringement at the play the ball.

Shortly before half time Sean Leicester also saw yellow.

Thatto have shown they are a champion side this season and on 60 minutes they showed why when Jamie Tacey crossed for well taken try converted by the returning Leicester.

Leicester then shot over for his own try which he successfully converted to bring the score to 14-12.

Following strong play and continued pressure from the Crusaders Milford conceded consecutive penalties which Leicester slotted easily to take Thatto to 16-14.

The game and promotion was secured when Aaron Dancer intercepted and went over wide out to complete a remarkable comeback.

Next week Thatto head to Leeds again to face Oulton Raiders to keep their impressive away record. With only three games to go the Championship is close.