WEST Bowling got off to a flying start in the Pennine League as they comfortably saw off the challenge of King Cross 44-16 in the Championship Division.

With an average age of just 22, Bowling played beyond their years in a display that coach Glenn Barraclough would have been highly proud of.

Centre Adam Reardon and hooker Daniel Gregory led the way with a hat-trick apiece, while second-row forwards Jason Marshall and Oliver Bartle also crossed.

Scrum half Ben Heald was in good form with the boot, kicking six goals.

In Division One, Victoria Rangers fought out a thrilling 16-16 draw at Stainland Stags.

Vics, who have been catapulted up three divisions this season, battled valiantly against newly-promoted Stags, with hooker Isaac Brown producing a stand-out performance to claim the man-of-the-match award.

Brown helped himself to two tries, supported by a touchdown from second-row forward Tom Duff, while half-back Josh Hattle was on target with two conversions.

Queensbury A opened their Division Three account with a fine 10-4 win at Kinsley Raiders.

Try of the day came from full back Billy Naylor, who intercepted superbly to race the full length of the field to touch down, half-back Jonny Norman adding the extras.

Centre Andy Walker picked up Bury's other try but it was their determined defence that ultimately secured the points.

Victoria Rangers A hold the bragging rights over Odsal Sedbergh A in Division Six West after their hard-fought 18-6 victory.

Try-scorers for Vics were centre Phil Jepson, prop Luke Robinson, scrum half Haydn Sugden and Aron Levy. Jamie Kerr collected the man-of-the-match award.

Queensbury A also got off to a winning start as they beat Worth Village 16-10. Sam Cheney collected a brace, while veteran forward Brett Marriott also powered over to score.