PRESTON Grasshoppers retained their 100 per cent record by the narrowest of margins after a stern test from a Manchester side whose pack will prove too strong for many opponents this season.

An early Steve Kerry penalty was quickly answered by a try from Manchester's Wilde, which Swindells converted.

A second Kerry penalty reduced the arrears before Hanson crossed in the corner to give the home side a six-point lead at the break.

Two more penalties levelled the scores early in the second half, but replacement Scales quickly restored Manchester's lead with his first penalty.

Midway through the half Hoppers back row combined to put Ian Ashton in for a try which Kerry converted but the game was far from over.

A penalty from Seales with 12 minutes remaining reduced the lead to a single point and increased the tension but Hoppers held on to record a victory which may well be important at the final reckoning.

This Saturday offers the prospect of another thriller as big spending Worcester, who currently lie second in the table, visit Lightfoot Green.

Kick off is at 3.00pm.

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