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Lions back in top spot

Jeff Tyldesley
8/ 6/2006

Rugby League
Swinton Lions 54
Hunslet Hawks 22

SWINTON annihilated Hunslet on enemy territory - and on this form few would bet against the Lions gaining promotion!

Friday night's game was played at Salford's stadium - the Willows - due to Sedgley Park being reseeded.

And the Lions certainly made themselves feel at home. They shot to the top of the League Two table with a mightily impressive attacking display against what was the second tightest defence in the division.

However, arguably the most significant incident happened off the ball as the Lions' inspirational skipper, Lee Marsh, had his nose broken by Darren Robinson's elbow - a foul that all of the officials miraculously managed to miss.

The Lions then set about making the Hawks pay for their aggression.

They punched holes through Hunslet's defence for fun.

Winger Andy Saywell helped himself to three of Swinton's 10 tries.

Goal kicker Liam McGovern enjoyed an 18-point haul - including his first try for the club.

He also claimed the assist to three other tries.

McGovern's half back partner, Martin Moana, bagged two tries, as did full back Wayne English.

But second rower Ian Sinfield was arguably the star of the show. He was as industrious as ever and his reward came in the form of the final try of the game.

Lions coach Paul Kidd said: "To lose Lee Marsh early in the game was a massive blow.

"But Kris Smith filled the gap and I'm very pleased with the result. We started well but we can still improve. We are becoming more aggressive and the discipline is getting better."

Team: English; Saywell, Llewellyn, Ashton, Billy; Moana, McGovern; Marshall, Crabtree, Smith, Sinfield, Marsh. Subs used: Alstead, Stout, Johnson, Parry. Tries: Moana (2), Saywell (3), English (2), McGovern, Llewellyn, Sinfield. Goals: McGovern (7).

Attendance: 466.