WIDNES 0 PRESTON GRASSHOPPERS 47

HOPPERS had little trouble in progressing to round two of the Lancashire Cup on Tuesday evening.

An early push over try for Michael Bailey set the scene before good work from Michael Lough established the position for Charlie Du Pre to claim Hoppers second. With Chris Glynn converting both, the show was on the road.

Josh Philpot then took Hoppers deep into Widnes territory. Although the first chance went begging, a hurried clearance to touch did not gain much ground.

A copybook lineout gave Hoppers forwards the opportunity to drive Karl Fenton over the home line.

With the Widnes scrum in difficulty, a stolen ball allowed Hoppers half-backs to take full advantage with Lough the scorer. Glynn again converted. Iain Bruce's determined run claimed Hoppers fifth early in the second-half with Glynn again on target with the conversion.

Replacement John Chesworth was at the heart of the next try, with a familiar set piece move putting Lough in at the posts. The Australian then seized on a spilled ball to outpace the defence for Hoppers seventh and with Gym converting both, the game was as good as over.

With both sides utilising a number of replacements, the final quarter was disappointing.

Hoppers endeavoured to run the ball at every opportunity but their handling was below par.

Widnes enjoyed more possession but lacked the guile to break down a Hoppers defence in which John Chesworth was outstanding.

The draw sees Hoppers travel to Manchester for a second round tie next Tuesdaym, May 9.