Window of opportunity closes for Hill at Pilkington Recs

BRADFORD Dudley Hill's hopes of promotion from Division Two came to an early conclusion against old foes Pilkington Recs in their Kingstone Press National Conference League play-off decider at St Helens.

Hill, who edged the league clashes against Recs 24-22 and 25-24, started off full of vim and vigour but it was the hosts who struck the first blow with a converted try from centre Ian Stanley just four minutes into the game.

Pilks scrum half Danny Lynch then sold an outrageous dummy to send full back Andy Napper racing over, soon followed by another effort by wingman Danny Filson to leave Hill 16-0 down at half-time.

It was more of the same on the restart when home packman Mark Briody made the whitewash, before the introduction of substitute Lewis Evans revived Hill's fortunes with a sparkling try.

Then when centre Nick Fontaine fought off three tacklers to plant the ball out wide, leaving Nathan Kitson to add the extras, there was a glimmer of hope in the Parry Laners' ranks.

But it was not meant to be as Pilks hooker Liam Bostock dived over from acting half, leaving Lynch to make sure of the full reward.

A late Lynch penalty after a bout of fisticuffs ensured Hill went home to contemplate another shot at gaining promotion next term.