PRESTON GRASSHOPPERS 23 ASPATRIA 10

HOPPERS gained revenge for October's defeat in Cumbria and in doing so consolidated their fifth position in Jewson League Two North.

Stunned by a third minute try from Matthew Woodcock which Steven Wood converted, Hoppers quickly hit back.

An incisive break from Anton Fields found support from Gary Monaghan and Andy Parker.

The big centre applied the finishing touches but was unable to add the extra points as his conversion attempt flew wide.

A period of Hoppers pressure resulted in a string of penalties, giving Parker the opportunity to put Hoppers one point in front.

Despite having the edge up front, Hoppers were unable to increase their lead before the break.

The second half was only one minute old when Monaghan showed his pace to claim his sixth try of the season with a weaving run from near halfway.

Wood kept Aspatria in the game with a penalty, but it was only minutes before Hoppers scored a third try.

A scrummage deep in the Aspatria 22 was an ideal platform for John Chesworth to enter the line and cross near the posts to give Parker an easy conversion.

The strength and pace of University of Central Lancashire student Steven Hanley was Aspatria's main weapon, although Hoppers were enjoying the lion's share of possession. A fine run by Parker took Hoppers deep into the Aspatria half, the centre putting Hoppers further ahead with a penalty when the visitors infringed.

Hoppers continued to dominate, with Peter Carter taking a scrum against the head.

A long run by Hanley threatened, but the centre was halted inches from the Hoppers line.

Hoppers were again on the attack as the game drew to a close, with a drop goal attempt from Parker striking a post but staying out.

Hoppers now begin a tough series of matches against the top three sides in the league, beginning with Saturday's visit to Manchester.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.