Sainty puts boot into Cleckheaton

A last-minute drop goal from Rovers fly half Chris Sainty gave the home side a much- needed victory and, on the balance of play, a deserved four points.

It meant huge disappointment for Cleckheaton, who experienced something of a reality check in what was their first defeat since October.

Initially, it appeared that the game would go the way of the formbook when Richard Piper drove over for the first try in the fifth minute, Ross Hayden converting for the visitors.

Rovers hit back in the 20th minute when veteran winger Steve Jones went over for a try in the corner, which Sainty failed to convert.

Two early second-half penalties from the Rovers fly half pushed the home side into the lead.

It wasn’t until the 65th minute that Cleckheaton regained control with a try from back-rower Ed Chapp-elow, which Ross Hayden failed to convert.

For the next 15 minutes, the visitors laid seige to the Rovers line with a series of rolling mauls.

But the home side retained their composure and repelled several try-scoring efforts.

As time ran out, Rovers’ forwards created the position for Sainty to win the match for Hartlepool.