HOPPERS progressed into the fourth round of the Powergen Intermediate Cup with this comprehensive win.

Hoppers were able to reach the half-century mark and kept their try line intact although the visitors came very close on several occasions.

The home side had more skill and pace in the backs but a worrying number of unforced errors, which could not all be blamed on a greasy ball, kept the scoreboard operator underemployed.

Hoppers went ahead as early as the third minute with a try by centre Mathieu Naddeo but Tyldesley were not prepared to throw in the towel and came back strongly to be rewarded with a penalty by fly half Ashley Worsfold to keep in touch. Russell Flynn troubled the away defence each time he got the ball and scored tries in the 16th and 24th minute both converted by full back Quigley.

One flowing move involving slick interpassing with several players involved deserved a try but Hoppers continued to frustrate their supporters who had to wait until just before half time for the next score, scrum half Daniel 'DJ' Uphill squirming over near the posts for his first senior try. Bailey again converted to make the score 26-3 at the break. The second period was almost half over before any addition to the score when replacement Andrew Dockray dived over, this time converted by Paul Bailey who had also come off the bench.

New recruit Will Hughes, recovered from injury, then took a hand in the 62nd minute, chipping the ball ahead and using his pace to get the touchdown. Michael Jones making his first start was next to cross the line for his inaugural try and, right on full time, Will Hughes had a simple run-in for his second. Bailey converted both to bring up the half-century.

On Saturday Hoppers are at home to Altrincham/Kersal.

Final score: Preston G'hoppers 52

Tyldesley 3