Featherstone Lions in seventh heaven with return to winning ways against leaders

The visitors from Huddersfield had enjoyed a strong start to their campaign, but they were immediately put under pressure by the Lions.

That pressure paid off when a high bomb was spilled and gathered by Alfie Beresford, who quickly moved the ball onto Nathan Hammond for the opening try.

Liam Kay was unable to convert and Newsome responded well, capitalising on successive sets in Featherstone territory to level the scores with a try out wide.

Kay made amends for his conversion miss by combining with his former rugby union teammate Sam Millard to put Lions back in front. This time the extras were added and Lions looked to be heading for some respite from the strong sunshine with a half-time lead of 10-4.

Panthers had other ideas, though, and capitalised on a home side error to even things up at 10-all at the break.

The second half saw Lions’ team grit and determination take control. The error count reduced and some outstanding distribution from Featherstone’s half-backs produced tries for Ash Smith, Jack Brears, Will Smith, Elliot Bell and finally Kay. Newsome could only add one try in return.

Kay’s final try put a seal on an excellent win. The victory was not without flaws but the team dynamic was impressive in both attack and defence. Josh Hardcastle, the former Rovers favourite, was particularly influential, delivering a commanding display with powerful carries and relentless tackling.

Next up, the Lions face a sterner test as they take on Oldham St Annes from one league above, at the Millpond Stadium in the National Cup.

Elsewhere in the Yorkshire B Conference Fryston Warriors were edged out 17-16 by Skirlaugh, but Kippax Welfare had a great win, 24-20 against Normanton Knights.

In the National League Premier Lock Lane seemed set to beat visitors Waterhead Warriors when Calum Butler charged over on 65 minutes and Morgan Punchard’s second goal helped establish a 26-22 lead.

But Waterhead’s Kegan Brennan nipped in some eight minutes later and his fourth goal secured a 28-26 win.

Defeat was tough on the Castleford side, who had previously posted tries by Lewis Price, Morgan Jones – who improved his own score – Kieran Purdy and Brandon Worsley.

Harrison Dodd (twice), Nathan Mason and Mitchell Birch had opened for the Warriors.

In the Yorkshire Men’s League Upton won 36-22 at Seacroft Sharks in Division One while Castleford Panthers beat Dearne Valley Bulldogs 34-6 in Division Two where Cutsyke Raiders were also 24-0 winners over Goole Vikings.

Hemsworth Dragons had the better of a 34-28 result against Stanningley in Division Four.

In Division Five Methley Warriors went down 28-16 to New Earswick All Blacks.