HELSBY capitalised on being involved in one of only two weekend games in South Lancs Cheshire Four - and Merseyside Police's surprise defeat at Port Sunlight - to take second place in the table.

But it was only late on, through a missed Capenhurst conversion from out wide, that the Villagers' victory was confirmed.

In a tight game the visitors had started strongly and were rewarded with a well-taken try.

An Andy Rowlinson penalty opened Helsby's account, but a second score by Capenhurst gave them a good lead.

The hosts got themselves back into the game as good hands allowed wing Rich Albel to cross near the corner.

Rowlinson's conversion cut the half-time deficit to 14-10.

A strong start by Helsby saw another Rowlinson penalty bring them right back in the game.

They took the lead for the first time when Jim Gray embarked on a rampaging run and brilliantly off-loaded in the tackle to give Bob Merrill a chance to race in from 20 yards.

Rowlinson improved the touchdown but Capenhurst refused to give up.

They replied with a penalty soon cancelled out by another from Rowlinson.

With time running out Capenhurst scored near the corner. But, fortunately for Helsby, the extras weren't added and they held on.

Helsby's Frodsham Tandoori MoM was Jim Gray for his strong running and excellent defence.

Helsby are at home again this Saturday when third-placed Parkonians make the trip (ko 2.30pm).

Team (from): Garner, Walker, M Williams, Johnson, Killalee, Gibson, Killalee, O'Neill, M Wakefield, Gray, Rutter, Merrill, A Wakefield, J Williams, F Jones, R Albel, C McKean, Rowlinson.

Halton return to league action this Saturday at undefeated South Lancs-Cheshire Three leaders Sale (ko 2.30pm).