GOOD TURN FOR ROVERS
Scott lifts Featherstone into the last-8
SCOTT TURNER scored two tries to help Championship Featherstone book the first quarter-final place in this year’s Challenge Cup.
The left-winger touched down in either half, the second crucial effort a split second before being bundled into touch.
Halifax’s defence kept them in it for long spells in a bruising clash between two former cup winners.
But Rovers had a superior cutting edge, with experienced halfback Anthony Thackeray steering them effectively.
Jon Sharp’s parttimers will now be hoping for a moneyspinning last-eight clash against a Super League giant.
Sharp lost threequarters Chris Ulugia and Luke Briscoe to serious-looking leg injuries, while Fax had Shane Grady sin-binned for a second-half trip.
Featherstone trailed briefly for five minutes after Halifax second-rower Ben Heaton sliced through inside the opening quarter. Rovers were level when Keal Carlile sent John Davies over and led 13-6 at the break.
Playing uphill second half, the home side extended their lead as Turner somehow grounded the ball under pressure.
But despite having Grady yellow carded for tripping Misi Taulapapa, Fax found a response.
Rob Worrincy’s break gave them field position before Ben Johnston stepped through a static defence.
Rovers were concerned enough for Thackeray to slot a second drop goal.
They then sealed matters when Josh Hardcastle forced his way over out wide.