Rangers succumb in tough battle

SADDLEWORTH Rangers were kept at bay as they opened their Kingstone Press National Conference League Division One campaign with a 22-12 loss at Salford City Roosters.

Craig Farrimond’s men pounded the hosts’ line for the first 15 minutes of the second half, but were unable to force their way through.

Rangers trailed 10-6 at the turnaround, but then conceded 12 unanswered points to leave themselves with a mountain to climb.

Roosters started well, breaking the deadlock in the seventh minute with a Steven Barry try, converted by Jordan Parker.

Danny Bowker’s effort, goaled by Ben Whitehead, levelled things up in the 23rd minute.

Roosters were back in front four minutes later when Andrew Muscat went in.

There was still everything to play for at the halfway stage, and Rangers emerged for the second half with all guns blazing.

Roosters held on grimly with some resolute defensive work, and extended their lead in the 57th minute with a Joe Connor try, converted by Parker.

And Parker made no mistake again after Paul Morgan touched down with eight minutes remaining.

Rangers hit back with a Tom Robinson try in the 78th minute — Whitehead kicked the goal — but it was too little, too late to influence the outcome.