HOPPERS made hard work of gaining the point they needed to dispel any possible fear of relegation.

They made too many unforced errors in a frequently disjointed match which they cound have won in some comfort.

The lead 16-14 at half-time through three penalties by Steve Gough who all converted Dave Chadwick's forward orientated try following a line out.

LSH points came from a try and three penalties but after the break they took control. Two converted tries gave them a 12 point lead with 20 minutes to go.

Hoppers roused themselves with replacement scrum half Chris O'Toole, veteran of many a campaign, leading the charge.

A try by Gary Monaghan who finished off Hoppers best move of the day was followed by one from big Josh Williams leaving a nerveless Gough to convert and save the day. This was Hoppers last home game of the season and they complete their league programme with a trip to Halifax on Saturday.

After that they have one important date on Monday May 5 when they meet West Park St Helens in the final of the Lancashire Cup to be played at Sedgely Park Manchester.

The Colts are also on the cup trail and meet Otley Colts at Lightfoot Green on Sunday (1pm) in the semi-final of the National Plate competition.

Preston Grasshoppers 28

Liverpool St Helens 28