Hoppers suffered a body blow to their hopes of league survival with this home defeat.

They had the better of the first half and a try by Gary Monahan converted by Paul Bailey who also kicked a penalty gave them a half time lead of 10-8, the visitors points coming from a penalty and an unconverted try.

Unfortunately injury problems continue to mount.

After losing prop John Young with a rib problem which may keep him out for three weeks they also lost Paul Manley just before the break.

Making a rare appearance Manley's influence was obvious and in the second half Kendal took control.

They scored two tries-one a penalty award-and with both converted went into a 22-10 lead. Hoppers fought hard to retrieve the situation but were only able to add to their score twominutes from the end when Sam Houston scored a fine try.

Hoppers are at home again on Saturday when Darlington make their first visit to Lightfoot Green, kick off 2.15pm.

Final score: Preston Grasshoppers 15

Kendal 22