Saddleworth A 6 Parr Hare & Hounds 16 HOUNDS returned to winning ways with this hard-fought success at Oldham, thanks mainly to an excellent defensive effort.

The visitors started well with centre Stu Weir grabbing an unconverted try. Then loose-forward Ian Marsh intercepted deep inside his own half and outpaced the cover to score, adding the conversion to make it 10-0.

Saddleworth hit back with a converted try after ill discipline allowed them to establish a good atacking position. But Hounds regained control before the break with another long-range interception try, this time by centre Ste Hill, again converted by Marsh.

The home side enjoyed territorial superiority for most of the second period but couldn't pierce a resolute Hounds defence, well marshalled by outstanding skipper Paul Proudlove, and the Parr Stocks Road lads held out for a well-deserved win.

Also outstanding for the winners in a great all-round team display were scrum-half Mark McMillan, Dave Meadows, Phil Thompson, Ian Sherwood and Weir, while there was a welcome return to the fold for Gary Jackson.

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