Darwen Vale have retained their East Lancashire Rugby League shield – but only just after the defending Yr 8 champions were held to a 20-20 draw by Haslingden High School.

The finals were held at Haslingden High School where, after two qualifying rounds, Alder Grange joined Vale and Haslingden to battle it out for glory. In the opening game, Haslingden hung on to beat Alder Grange 24-20.

The second saw Darwen Vale power to a 24-8 win over Alder Grange to set up a showdown with the hosts.

Haslingden stormed to a 20-4 lead at the break but Darwen Vale fought back to make it 20-16 and, with time running out, made it 20-20. Haslingden had the ball but could not could not score and Vale clung on to the shield.