SLAITHWAITE Saracens are the Pennine League Division IV champions!

Coach Steve Russell's side clinched the title after securing a thrilling 20-16 triumph at second-placed Whitehall Warriors.

This was the last match of the season and, with just one point separating the sides, it was a case of winner takes all!

Slaithwaite made a dream start, with debut scrum half Danny Aldridge scoring a try after two minutes.

And when the ever-reliable Richard Flooks added the extras, the visitors appeared to be on their way.

But this was never going to be easy, and the Warriors mounted attack after attack to test the Saracens' defence to limit.

Fortunately, they held firm and were rewarded when Mark Lodge crashed over for a second converted score to make it 12-0.

However, Whitehall bounced back with tries either side of half-time to cut the deficit to two points.

At that stage, the balance of power had shifted, but midway through the half, Darren Hawkyard scored a superb try and Flooks again goaled.

With only four tense minutes remaining, Whitehall grabbed a converted try to take them within two points of Slaithwaite.

But in the closing moments, Flooks slotted over a penalty to relieve the pressure and secure a thoroughly-deserved victory.

It was the perfect way to mark Russell's last game as coach of Slaithwaite as he is returning to his native Australia and will be missed by everyone at the Saracens.

In his two seasons in charge, the popular Australian, pictured left, guided them to the Supplementary Cup last season, and the division championship this.