HOPPERS outplayed fourth-placed Harrogate to take the points and in doing so lifted themselves up to fifth in the league. (GRASSHOPPERS 24 HARROGATE 11)

A fourth-minute Dunscombe penalty for the visitors suggested Hoppers were in for a difficult afternoon, but the visitors' handling was poor and Hoppers soon levelled the score with a Martin Emmett penalty.

Midway through the half a Harrogate passing movement broke down on halfway.

Gary Monaghan was first to the loose ball, employing soccer skills to dribble to the visitors' line.

A tackle from behind prevented a touchdown but referee Rose had no hesitation in awarding a penalty try.

Emmett's conversion was a formality. With Kiwi Steven Fee on as replacement, Hoppers started the second half strongly.

Close range line-outs are becoming a speciality and it was no surprise when Glyn Dewhurst was driven over for a try.

Harrogate reduced the arrears courtesy of a Dunscombe penalty before claiming a try.

A long kick downfield looked to be covered but winger Farrar was quickly up to top the ball from Chris Stewart's grasp and claim an unconverted try.

The threat of a Harrogate comeback was short-lived as Hoppers again took control.

Three Emmett penalties completed the scoring to give Hoppers just reward for a sound afternoon's work.

On Saturday Hoppers will travel confidently to Harrogate for a second round tie in the Tetley's Bitter Cup.

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