Skirlaugh 19, Haydock 6

HAYDOCK'S heroes can hold their heads high after their Herculean efforts on Humberside on Saturday.

They bowed out of the Silk Cut Challenge Cup at the second round stage. But they gave the National Conference League pace-setters a real run for their money.

It was a below-strength side that made the long journey, but they produced a super display that was a credit to the North West Counties League.

Haydock were up against it from the off as Skirlaugh surged forward. But great Haydock defence held them at bay.

The Yickers found it difficult to reach Skirlaugh territory, but Kelsey went close before being hauled down by the home full-back. And Pearson also made a strong run.

However, Skirlaugh took the lead with a try in the corner after 20 minutes.

Once again the Haydock tackling had to be good and P. Cahlin was at the forfront with a tremendous defensive stint. Bloor eased the pressure with a great 40-yard run, but his inside pass went just behind the supporting player.

Skirlaugh went further ahead eight minutes from the break after Haydock conceded the ball inside their own 22.

They kept the Humbersiders out for 18 tackles before the pressure told and a Skirlaugh player scored from acting half-back.

The second half started badly for Haydock as Skirlaugh scored near the posts. allowing a simple conversion.

And five minutes later they added to Haydock woes with a try wide out after a move which involved a pass that looked suspiciously forward.

Many teams would have buckled at this stage, but Haydock dug in and for the last half-hour looked the better team.

Debutant winger Tickle raced through to touch down, only to be brought back for putting a foot in touch.

And with 12 minutes to go O'Gara intercepted, passed to Ireland, who switched it to Hill, and he raced 30 yards to score.

Ireland landed an excellent conversion, but minutes later Skirlaugh landed a drop goal.

Best for Haydock in a brave all-round effort were Bloor, Kelsey, Haughey, Wade and Cahlin.

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