HOPPERS will regard this as a game which they could have won.
The home side started strongly, getting off the mark in the sixth minute when fly half Jones put centre Wynn in for a try. A Jones penalty then increased the lead. Hoppers struggled in the lineout with an Orrell steal leading to the next score.
Incisive running from Craig and Welding opened up Hoppers defence enabling Jones to cross. The same player converted to make the lead 15 points.
With skipper Michael Lough in the sinbin, Hoppers looked set for a heavy defeat. Determined tackling from scrum half Charlie Du Pre set a fine example, however, as Hoppers hit back.
A Chris Glynn penalty reduced the arrears. When home prop Winstanley in the sinbin, Hoppers took advantage with Glynn on target with two penalties.
A second Jones penalty replied in kind but Hoppers were combining well with Paul Bailey running elusively. Michael Lough and Gary Monaghan then put Paul Barrow in under the posts. Glynn converted and with six minutes left and the margin only two points, the game was anybody's.
A Jones penalty steadied Orrell's nerves before an injury time try from Kerfoot converted by Jones put the icing on the home side's cake.
On Saturday, Hoppers entertain promoted Stourbridge. Kick off at 3 p.m.
RESULT: Orrell 28 Preston Grasshoppers 16
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article