PRESTON GRASSHOPPERS 31 KIRKBY LONSDALE 10

HOPPERS' makeshift side struggled at times against a side four divisions below them in the league structure.

Early tries from Lee Douglas and Mike Bailey, with one converted by Rob Smith, established an ideal platform but the visitors forwards warmed to their task and began to give Hoppers a difficult time.

A penalty from Angus reduced the arrears but indiscipline was becoming a problem for the visitors.

Backchat caused the reversal of a penalty which then led to a third Hoppers try as Michael Lough made inroads into the 22 before presenting John Young with the opportunity to cross under the posts.

Smith converted to make the lead 16 points at the interval. Kirkby Lonsdale briefly flourished on the restart with a try from Hurst and a conversion from Angus giving them hope.

Hoppers, however, took the game to the visitors and increased their lead when Lough stole over from a tap penalty with the defenders waiting in vain for his pass.

Smith converted.

Hoppers introduced four replacements, with colt James Swarbrick quickly impressing with a strong run down centre field.

The game was made safe ten minutes from time when Lee Douglas crossed for his second try after good work from Dave Southern.

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