A YOUNG Rovers side showed a lot of commitment but the more experienced Humbersiders were able to overcome that and record a flattering 41-18 victory in the National Conference League Premier Division on Saturday.

Skirlaugh built up a 10-point advantage in 11 minutes. Rovers opened their account when centre Peter Livett spun in a tackle and off-loaded to hooker Drew Povey who burrowed his way over. John Welch added the conversion.

Midway through the half a '40-20' kick from scrum half Graham Smith set up position and when full back Mark Cosgrove was held just short, Povey went on his own from acting half back to score his second try. Welch goaled for a 12-10 Rovers lead.

Skirlaugh hit back when stand off Colin Brown sent Lee Newton over for his second try and then Brown scooted over. He converted both tries and added a drop goal to give his side a 23-12 interval lead.

A minute into the second half Rovers had stand off Mark Wallington and Livett sin binned along with Skirlaugh prop Gotts.

While the Humbersiders had the numerical advantage they increased their lead with further tries from Newton and loose forward Phil Crane.

Skirlaugh were reduced to 12 men when second row Scott Matthews was sent off for use of the elbow but then Rovers had Livett dismissed for an alleged high tackle.

Rovers gained a consolation try through winger Daniel Woods - his first for the first team. Substitute David Hudd converted but Skirlaugh finished the scoring in the final minute.

Outstanding for Rovers were prop forward Mark Pendleton, Povey and Cosgrove.

Rovers: Mark Cosgrove; Daniel Woods, Paul Fiddler, Peter Livett, Mark Roughneen; Mark Wallington, Graham Smith, Mark Shephard, Drew Povey, Mark Pendleton, John Welch, Jon Cole, Neil Smith.

Tomorrow, Saturday, Rovers have no game due to their scheduled opponents, Egremont Rangers, having resigned their membership from the National Conference League.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.