Lancashire Lynx 8pts, Featherstone Rovers 16

DESPITE putting up a much more committed performance Lancashire Lynx slipped to yet another home defeat against Featherstone Rovers in a bruising encounter at Victory Park.

But Lynx coach Steve Hampson was delighted with his team's performance.

He said: "It was our best performance for a long time especially as it was against one of the top sides in the league.

"The turning point was probably the glorious chance missed in the first half which would have put us well clear."

He said: "PJ Soloman continues to impress especially in defence whist Neil Parsley looks more comfortable at fullback with only one error throughout the game."

Lynx dominated from the start and were ahead inside four minutes with a penalty from Paul Roberts. It took Lynx another 10 minutes to make their pressure count when Lee Prest was on hand to touch down.

The introduction of Brendan Tuuta by the visitors raised their game and his combination with Hitro Okesene made life difficult for the Lynx.

It was now Featherstone's turn to dominate proceedings and it was no surprise when they finally touched down in the 32nd minute through Matt Bramald to level at 6-6 at half-time.

Featherstone went ahead with a penalty from Jamie Rodney before Wayne Simmons added a try shortly afterwards. The game had been simmering for a long period and Lynx' Andy Bennett found himself in the sin bin for 10 minutes as the referee's patience finally snapped. Despite being down to 12 men, Lynx reduced the arrears with a penalty from Paul Roberts but Featherstone sealed victory with a try from Matt Bramald eight minutes from time.

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