GRASSHOPPERS 20 NEW BRIGHTON 15

from weekend of November 22/23

PRESTON Grasshoppers successfully progressed into the second round of the newly created RFU National Colts Knockout Cup at the expense of New Brighton.

With a strong contingent from the Cheshire County colts and North of England side against them, Hoppers pulled this match out of the bag with minutes to spare.

John Kirkpatrick opened the scoring, thanks to effective running by Sam Kidd and his try-line pass.

Employing sheer physical pressure through a big and heavy pack, New Brighton dominated the mid-half exchanges taking the lead with a converted try.

A penalty followed, before Hoppers' winger, Adam Wilson levelled match at 10-10 on half-time.

Once again the visitors took the lead - and with Hoppers struggling for possession at every line-out, it was left to the backs to score as centre James Swarbrick went over.

Finally, Sam Kidd put the result beyond doubt with an excellent try minutes from full time.

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