Bradford Salem’s relegation from Yorkshire Division One was confirmed by their 53-15 defeat at Heath last night.

Playing under floodlights, Salem began the game in positive fashion and took an early 5-0 lead when second-rower Damien Cope crashed over in the corner after a period of intense pressure on the Heath line.

However, Heath hit back almost immediately with a converted try, and from then on Salem found it hard to contain the powerful centre partnership of Jarrod Morris and former Super League player Martin Moana. Matt Booth landed a penalty from 35 metres but Salem went into the break with a 29-8 deficit.

Salem’s pack continued to exert pressure in the second half but far too often possession was lost when in good scoring positions.

The Bradford side’s cause was not helped by worrying knee injuries to Matt Booth and skipper Simon Davies, who were forced to leave the field, as well as No 8 Jonny Luxton who suffered a dead leg.

Flanker Chris Fisher did manage to cross the line for Salem’s second try but Heath always looked dangerous on the break and ran in seven tries to seal an emphatic win.

Salem will be sending a patched-up side, which could include a debutant in Dav Kothari, out to face visitors York on Saturday.

Bradford Salem (home to York): R Langhorn; P Collins, K Whata, A Ahir, C Savva; I Woodwiss, J Reynolds; D Luxton, D Hutton, D Kothari, R Bourne, J Morrell, J Luxton, K Falwasser, D Pearson. Replacements: C Buxton, A N Other, S O Else.