Preston Grasshoppers 43, Blackheath 0

HOPPERS rounded off their historic promotion year by recording their first double of the season.

For the second time this winter Hoppers exceeded 40 points against a Blackheath side staring a second successive relegation in the face.

Hoppers took the initative from the start with a set play involving Michael Lough and John Chesworth putting the stand-off in for the opening try. Martin Emmett converted.

An Emmett penalty increased the lead and it was all Hoppers with Lough and Jason Brittin both halted inches short of the line.

A close range scrum provided the platform for Lough's second try but Emmett's conversion attempt struck the post

A sparkling run from Gary Monaghan just failed to put Ian Bruce in and Hoppers had to settle for two further Emmett penalties. As half time approached a good run from Chris Glynn took Hoppers close but again the final pass went astray.

Monaghan was again prominent early in the second period before an elusive run from Lough put Bruce in for Hoppers third try.

A Blackheath handling error gifted Hoppers another try with John Chesworth quick to react and kick the ball downfield.

Although a defender was first to the ball, his clearance kick lacked strength and gave Lough the chance to claim his third try.

Again Lough turned provider for the next try with skipper Neil Ashton on hand to take the pass and outpace the defence. Glynn converted.

In the dying moments Hoppers laid siege to the visitors' line and were rewarded when Ashton broke from a scrum to put Bruce for his second try.

ZOn Monday, December 27, Hoppers play their now traditional fixture of Development XV against the Exiles.

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