Grasshoppers grounded by Billingham

Northern Premier

CHAMPIONS-ELECT Preston Grasshoppers suffered only their second defeat of the season, as

Billingham came from behind to secure a 31-27 victory.

A brace from Connor Trueman along with a Scott Jordan score gave the table-toppers a 17-12 lead at the break.

But two tries from Dan Dixon, along with scores from Tom Briggs, Liam King and Matthew Kirby, helped the north-east side cause the upset.

After guaranteeing a play-off place last time out, Hull continued their momentum with a dominant 52-8 win against Kirkby Lonsdale.

The hosts crossed for eight tries through Joe Stafford (2), Tamasi Tanumi (2), Mike Adlard, Harvey Harding, Liam Fitts and Alex Heard.

Ryan Terry kicked a penalty for the visitors, with Ben Walker scoring their only try.

Third-place Harrogate were also convincing winners, overcoming Morley 24-0 on their travels.

First-half tries from Keane Naylor, Evan Woodworth and Harry Barnard put the visitors in control before a fourth try after the break secured both the win and the bonus point. Birkenhead Park edged a tight encounter with Kendal 24-21.

Tries from Josh Smith, Chris McNoe and Olly Mabbott, with three conversions and a drop goal from Simon Mason, had given the hosts a 24-0 lead.

But tries from Dini Noyo, Danny Barker and Kris Bratton, converted by Glen Weightman, made it a nervy last few minutes. It was also tight in

Rossendale’s 31-26 away win against the Wirral.

Tries from James Bramhall, Dominic Moon, Jack Wilkinson, Leon Simpson and Lewis Allen, who also added three of the conversions, ensured Dale went home with maximum points. Already-relegated

Pocklington recorded just their second win of the season with a 31-20 bonus-point home success against Sandal.

The hosts scored through Owen Jackson, Archie Fothergill, William Hardy and Christian Pollock, while Thomas Baxter and James Stuart crossed for the visitors.

Finally, Ilkley ran in six tries in their 42-12 away win against Lymm.