Hollinwood rue missing players

RUGBY: HOLLINWOOD could raise only 13 players for the short trip to Slaithwaite in Pennine League Division Five and, despite a valiant effort, couldn’t contain the home side.

The hosts had been having problems fielding a full team too, but managed it this time and were soon six points up.

Hollinwood roared back with a Paul Johnson try goaled by Andy Gorey, only to see Slaithwaite restore their advantage.

After the break, Hollinwood were reduced to 12 men when Jack Donbavand went off with injured ribs.

Ashley Dixon, playing at full-back, pulled off some try-saving tackles and then pushed off several would-be tacklers before crossing for a try, converted by Gorey.

But Hollinwood’s hopes were extinguished with two more tries, leaving the visitors considering themselves unlucky. Slaithwaite won 24-12.

Hollinwood’s next game is at home to high-flying Keighley for which they hope to field a full squad.