Burnage 2nd XV 12-66 Hoppers 2nd XV
Hoppers scored ten tries as they recorded a comfortable victory against a depleted yet resolute Burnage side. Young’s men dominated the opening exchanges and Yates (who bagged a hat trick) was the first on the score sheet.
The home side levelled things as they caught Hoppers dozing, scoring after a sharply taken penalty. Preston were somewhat sloppy with the ball and their breakdown work was also disappointing. They enjoyed a numerical advantage throughout but were guilty of forcing things a little too much without going through the phases or running direct lines.
In hindsight this is probably a symptom of the 3G surface whilst one might also suggest they were a little complacent at times.
Young’s men did though score some fine tries and look extremely dangerous when they maintain their focus.
Young stand-off Alex Ward scored two tries in addition to eight conversions, giving him a match tally of twenty six points. Also crossing the whitewash were Kendall, Burns, the returning Clitheroe, Rhodes-Powers and man of the match Gage.
The match also saw the return of dynamic flanker Eddie Webster who hopes to be turning out regularly in blue and white after the festive season is over.
Next weekend Hoppers face struggling Broughton Park at Lightfoot Green. The match is the final encounter before the Premier League splits into two conferences. Hoppers have qualified comfortably for Conference A.
Meanwhile, in other news, last week’s thrilling cup victory over Caldy has seen Young’s men rewarded with a home semi final against Sandbach.
@Jebbster1975
@JY75
