York Acorn ended an excellent season in the top flight of the National Conference with a heavy 42-0 defeat by Oulton in their second play-off tie.

Coach Alfie Hill told BBC Radio York: "I think we burnt all our energy last week [when they put Leigh Miners Welfare out of the competition]."

At the start of the season Acorn were tipped to go down but finished fifth in their debut season in the top flight.

"It's been a terrific season, we've exceeded expectations," Hill added.

"I actually tipped us to finish seventh, and just miss out on the play-offs, and to finish fifth is absolutely brilliant, the lads have really worked hard.

There's no time off if you want to achieve what you want to achieve Alfie Hill

"We'll be (better) prepared in coming seasons when we get to the play-offs, you've got to know what to expect.

"Finishing in fifth and sixth, you've got four games on the trot, four of your hardest games, and at the end of the season you need some fresh bodies.

"I'm not making any excuses but Oulton looked fresh and they've got a great chance of winning (the play-offs)."

The season is over but Hill warned Acorn's tired players that there is still work to be done.

"There's the inter-town (cup) starts on Wednesday night, so there's no time off if you want to achieve what you want to achieve.

"We've had a great season. They might have a couple of weeks off but they'll have to get back in training ready for next season," he concluded.

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