By CHRIS NUNN

Blaydon....................36
Hull Ionians............26
A STRONG first-half showing put Blaydon on the way to victory.
Within five minutes Ewan Stephens ghosted through the Ionians defensive line for John Clarkson to convert.
That was extended when Clarkson crossed from close range, and two minutes later a great break by Nathan Bailey set up Clarkson for his second.
Clarkson then turned provider for Jonny Ashman to score and secure a bonus point.
And after 30 minutes Blaydon opted for a 5m scrum and Clarkson dived over to complete a first-half hat-trick.
Ionians finally...