In-form visitors are snow match for Tigers

FYLDE’S nine-game unbeaten run came to an end in a fiercely competitive encounter at snow-laden Dore Moor.

A resolute defensive performance in the second half saw Tigers hold on for their first win of 2019.

Two tries either side of the break from skipper Alan Symcox and centre Tom Hart gave them a tenpoint cushion which, despite a last-minute try from the visitors, proved decisive.

Fylde started strongly and were rewarded with an early try – flanker Sam Dugdale forcing his way over following a lineout from ten metres and Greg Smith adding the extras.

The home side were quick to reply, Mark Ireland slotting a close-range penalty to narrow the gap.

The conditions worked against both sides’ desire to run with the ball but deep into first-half stoppage time Tigers’ winger Rob Davidson’s fine break from halfway resulted in Symcox driving over to take his side in 10-7 at the break.

The hosts picked up where they left off following the restart as excellent work from full-back Pete Swatkins to collect a high ball over the top and release Hart, sending him in under the posts.

Heroic defence from the hosts thwarted prolonged spells of Fylde pressure, even when Tigers flanker Ashley Holland saw yellow.

Fylde were held up over the line twice before Adam Lewis broke through at the death for a consolation try.