Warrington Wool Rvrs 86

Essex Eels 18

WARRINGTON Woolston Rovers got off to a flying start in the defence of their LHF Healthplan National League Three crown.

Nine players were among the try scorers while skipper Chris Mellor enjoyed a personal haul of 26 points through his 13 successful conversions from 15 attempts.

Three players scored hat-tricks with Lee Rushton leading the way and he was also the man of the match in the game played at Wilderspool Stadium.

He was supported strongly by fellow second row Scott Davidson, loose forward Mellor, full back Mark Roughneen, winger Paul Berry and hooker Wes Lawton.

It was Roughneen and Lawton who also crossed for try trebles.

Davidson, Andy Addison, Liam Horrigan, Andy Hill, James Brabin and Wes Lawton also got in on the try scoring act for Rovers.

The game was played in an excellent spirit with both sides contributing to a game that did not see one penalty given for foul play. Rovers built up a 40-8 lead by half-time.

On Saturday, Eddie Harris' men are away to Hemel Stags. The coach leaves Bennett's Recreation Ground, Padgate, at 9am for any supporters wishing to travel.

Rovers: Mark Roughneen; Paul Berry, James Brabin, Steve Smythe, Matt Taylor; Craig Harris, Andy Hill; Andy Addison, Wes Lawton, Neil Smith, Scott Davidson, Lee Rushton, Chris Mellor. Subs: Ben Hart, Liam Horrigan, Mike Walker, Mike Bright.