Spence shines brightly for happy Hoppers

By TIM THORLEY

Harrogate……… 31

Preston G……….38

THIS proved to be an open match of two halves.

Preston were much the stronger in the first, but Harrogate came storming back in the second, although Preston ran out winners.

The visitors struck first with tries from Cam Wilkinson and Tyler Spence, both converted by Greg Smith.

Harrogate responded through Will Hill, converted by Tom Steene.

However, Preston scored two further tries before half-time. Spence scored both to complete his hat-trick, giving Preston a try bonus point in the process. Smith was only able to convert the first.

Harrogate were a different side after the break, scoring immediately through Kristan Dobson, with Steene adding the extras.

Preston responded three minutes later as Harry Holden crossed for an unconverted try.

Ben Richardson reduced Harrogate’s deficit in the 57th minute, converted by Steene.

But Preston went further ahead with eight minutes left as Jacob Browne went over for Smith to convert.

Harrogate fought back. Steene converted his own try in the 75th minute, giving Harrogate a try bonus point.

Then, as time expired, Oli Toomey dropped a goal to give Gate a losing bonus point in a narrow defeat.