TOTAL commitment, two sparkling tries and a well organised defence brought Hoppers two precious league points against Halifax at Lightfoot Green.

They took the lead in less than a minute when Halifax kicked off but put the ball dead.

Hoppers won the ensuing scrum on half way and a superb move saw Gary Monaghan split the defence to give Oliver Viney a try under the posts which Sengili Tuihalamaka converted.

Halifax made a quick response with a penalty by Jeff Morley and although Hoppers exerted more pressure the Yorkshire side took the lead with an unconverted try by Morley. In pouring rain it was Hoppers turn to make a swift reply.

Paul Bailey,Tuihalamaka and Monaghan carving out another delightful try for Owen McKenna which Tuihalamaka converted.

Halifax had the last word of the half with another Morley penaltyto make it 14-11 at the break.

Skipper John Chesworth limped off at the start of the second half to be replaced by Adam Fletcher as Richard Thompson crossed for an unconverted try to return the lead to the visitors.

It became a war of attrition thereafter but Hoppers were up to the task.

Tuihalamaka landed two penalties to bring home the spoils but Hoppers' defensive efforts in the last ten minutes, with the pack taking the brunt of the challenge, were outstanding.

Having used all four replacements Hoppers now seem to be getting some strength in depth and will look to Saturday's trip to Broadstreet, whom they beat 34-20 at home tree weeks ago, to continue the climb up the table.

Preston Grasshoppers 20 Halifax 16