Preston Grasshoppers 21: Tries: Corey Logan (39 min), Niall Crosley (45 min); Conversions: Lewis Allen (39 min); Penalties: Lewis Allen (19 min, 32 min, 52 min)

Leicester Lions 5: Tries: Oliver Tapscott (69 min),

Leicester Lions travelled to Preston as this match had been postponed earlier in the season because of a frozen pitch. They were hopeful of a good result against a Hoppers team bottom of the league table.

The game started with Hoppers having the best of the opening play with some powerful and elegant rugby.

Hoppers were first on the score sheet after 19 minutes with a penalty by fullback Lewis Allen.

Lions started to exert their presence in the game, but were unable to open their account.

On 32 minutes Lewis Allen added Hoppers’ second penalty to make the score 6-0.

In the dying seconds of the first half Hoppers’ No 8, Corey Logan, drove over from a 5 metres scrum, with Lewis Allen adding the conversion.

Half Time: Preston Grasshoppers 13 Leicester Lions 0

Lions started the second half in a much more determined mood, putting Hoppers under significant pressure. Hoppers made the best of their opportunities when Niall Crosley sped over for their second try after 45 minutes to make the score 18-0.

Lewis Allen added his third penalty after 52 minutes, giving Hoppers a commanding 21-0 lead.

Lions were not for giving up easily and came back again putting Hoppers under pressure.

On 69 minutes Lions’ James Grayson slipped a deceptive pass to Oliver Tapscott, who went over to score a try for Lions, giving Lions a chance with the score 21-5.

This gave Lions the encouragement for a comeback, but determined defence by Hoppers prevented Lions from adding to their score.

Full Time: Preston Grasshoppers 21 Leicester Lions 5

A well taken win by Preston Grasshoppers, who impressed with some good forward tight and loose play.

Leicester Lions’ Director of Rugby, Ken Whitehead, said that it was a competitive game, but Lions found it hard to get into gear. We had opportunities, but could not convert them into points. Preston Grasshoppers played well and although they were bottom of the table before the game they showed that there are no easy victories for teams in National League 2 North.

Following this week’s games, Leicester Lions are still in third position in National League 2 North, with Preston Grasshoppers fifteenth, moving off the bottom of the table.

For further details consult www.ncarugby.org

Mike Howkins, Press Officer and Fourth Official Leicester Lions RFC
mikehowkins@gmail.com

Photo by Bev Clough Photography