Sheffield Hawks 2

Crosfields 31

A SUPERB defensive display by Crosfields kept Sheffield try-less and ensured their deserved progress to the second round of the Powergen Challenge Cup.

Sheffield Hillsborough Hawks drew first blood. They scored a penalty goal after Crosfields were penalised for holding down but they were then given a lesson into how to play effective Rugby League.

Eddie Bannon touched down for Crosfields following a good run and pass by man of the match Richard Hough.

Mike Redmond converted, added a drop goal and delivered a cross field kick from which Phil Bannon set up a try for Matt Mahoney. Redmond was again on target with the boot and his penalty goal soon after gave Crosfields a 15-2 half-time lead.

Crosfields dominated position and possession at the start of the second half and they were rewarded with three Redmond penalties.

The home side tried in vain to get back into the game. They were continually thwarted by Crosfields' scrambling defence and Sheffield's misery was complete when the visitors scored two tries in the final five minutes.

First John Bannon sent Danny Hoyland racing away in the corner and then Mahoney bagged his second try of the game following a storming run by Russ Parkman.

Redmond added the extras to both tries to take his points tally for the game to 15.

Team: Fraser Linaker; Phil Bannon, Matt Mahoney, Russ Parkman, Danny Hoyland; Mike Redmond, Eddie Bannon; Terry Reid, Richard Hough, Dave Mather, Andy Pucill, Wade Rasmussen, John Bannon. Subs: Barry Lowe, Chris Blackwell, Iain Hannon, Mark Nestor.

Crosfields are at home to Walney Central in the league on Saturday, kick-off at 2pm.