Saints kept at bay by stubborn Easts

RUGBY:  

OLDHAM St Anne’s had to play second fiddle to Leigh East, who secured a 46-12 victory on their artificial surface.

The hosts ran in eight tries in the Kingstone Press Conference League Division Two clash. Saints competed well throughout but despite a glut of possession were unable to turn pressure into points.

The visitors started promisingly when the impressive Dominic Bryan latched on to a high ball to touch down. Billy Barnes converted.

A solid defensive stint from Saints kept Easts at bay until the 15th minute when Lee Rowley dived in and Adam Holland kicked the first of his seven goals.

Man-of-the-match Martin Roden was at the centre of all Easts’ good work, and he was rewarded with a try in the 50th minute.

Holland kicked the goal and he also improved Danny Grainey’s effort, which put Easts 36-6 in front.

Saints, for whom James Ward had a fine afternoon, added to their points tally when a smart inside pass from Barnes found Bryan, who raced over for his second try. Barnes converted.



SADDLEWORTH Rangers, who only had 16 men, also went ahead in their NCL Division One clash at Elland.

Jack Bradbury went in and Ben Whitehead goaled, but that was as good as it got for Craig Farrimond’s team. Elland went on to win 42-6, with tries from Thomas Harnett (three), David Webb, Alex Milburn, Cayci Pearson and Bradley Radcliffe. Philip Taylor kicked seven goals.