ILKLEY have taken the first step in defence of their national sevens crown.

They won the Rascals Tournament at Bowdon in Cheshire on Saturday to progress to the regional qualification round.

Last-minute try from Josh Hall saw them defeat Fijian Knights 23-21 in the final.

The Dalesmen had little time to savour their success as they had to dash back to Stacks Field for their annual dinner.

JH Johnson, who has made the transition from winger to No8, was named as the Coaches’ Player of the Year.

The Players’ Player of the Year award went to flanker Joe Lowes, who could make his Yorkshire debut against Cheshire on Saturday.

The Man of Steel Award went to captain Elliot Morgan.