HOPPERS reached the half way stage in their league season with a ninth victory to consolidate their fourth position in Jewson National League One, beating Reading 26-21.

An even first half ended level, which was probably a disappointment to Reading who had had first use of a stiff breeze.

The first quarter was scoreless with Hoppers' best opportunity coming when Michael Lough just failed to beat the defence to his own kick.

A Hoppers line-out almost produced a try with the visitors conceding a short range scrum.

Reading misread Hoppers' formation, leaving their blindside defence outnumbered and their mistake proved costly as Lough took advantage for the first try of the game. Martin Emmett converted.

Reading quickly retaliated but Hoppers' defence looked to have weathered the storm.

A scrum was their undoing as Reading stole the ball and winger Richards was able to cross unopposed. Costeloe converted.

When the game's first penalty was awarded five minutes before half-time, Reading spurned the chance of a shot at goal.

But their decision failed to bear fruit as Hoppers contained their forward drive.

A Reading clearance kick only found Martin Emmett.

The full back launched a counter attack which saw the ball pass through five pairs of hands before Lough claimed his second touchdown, Emmett again adding the extra points.

Making good use of the wind, Hoppers dominated territorially and it was no surprise when a John Bleasdale break put Gary Monaghan in for a third Hoppers try.

Emmett maintained his 100 per cent record to make the lead 14 points.

Within minutes Hoppers' teamwork produced another score.

This time Iain Bruce started the move and again backs and forwards combined with Kiwi flanker Steve Fee making it two tries in two games.

Hoppers' faithful sat back and waited for the score to mount.

They were disappointed as their side lost concentration and allowed the visitors to gain some reward for a spirited performance.

Injury time tries from Hurst and Warren were both converted by Costeloe to give the final scoreline a look which hardly reflected Hoppers' second half domination.

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