ACCRINGTON Rugby League club returned to league action after an extensive break due to the weather and serious injury problems and overcame Clockface (St Helens) 28-10.

Accrington put on one of their best performances against opposition currently second in the table.

Led by inspirational captain Benson and with man-of-the-match Tebbey in outstanding form at loose forward, the home side took an early lead which was extended to 10 points by the interval.

Even after losing prop forward Kidd with a facial injury after 20 minutes, Accrington still kept a stranglehold on the game with all the forwards creating problems for the visitors' defence.

Clockface pulled a try back early in the second period and for a while threatened to turn the game in their favour.

Accrington would have none of it and with centres Hayes and Bostock creating numerous breaks and supporting the forwards superbly, they gradually took full charge of the game.

Hooker O'Rourke also played his part with great handling skills, creating two of the tries.

The local side can now look forward with optimism to the second half of the season. With injury problems easing daily they soon hope to have most of their squad back in action.

This was a great all-round team effort with everyone performing to the limits of their ability.

Scores: Tries: Benson 2, Shirt, Bostock, Hayes. Goals: O'Rourke 3. Drop goals: Bienias 2.

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