Bracknell 28, Preston Grasshoppers 7

HOPPERS had their chances during this game and were perhaps unlucky to lose by such a margin.

But it was Bracknell who made the most of their chances to score points leaving Hoppers wondering what might have been.

A third minute Shaw try gave Bracknell just the start they wanted.

But their determined efforts to increase the lead found no reward as Hoppers defended well.

Frustrated, the home side conceded a string of penalties allowing Hoppers back in to the game.

However, heavy rain made handling increasingly difficult. Hoppers coped well with the weather and took the chance to attack.

After some relentless pressure, centre Tim Lough crossed the try line and Chris Glynn converted to give Hoppers the lead.

A Hoogard penalty restored Bracknell's lead late in the half, but Hoppers could have easily been in front at the break.

A late Glynn penalty attempt struck a post and then the crossbar before bouncing back in to play. Hoppers took the game to Bracknell after the break with Martin Boyd a constant force at the line-out.

But a rare handling move from the home side saw full back Costeloe cross for a Bracknell try. Hoogard converted.

Tim Lough looked the most dangerous Hoppers' back, but twice he was halted just short of the line.

A Hoogard penalty increased the Bracknell lead.

Claims for a further try were denied as the referee ruled that the ball had not been grounded.

The dying minutes saw a Moore try converted by Hoogard and a further Hoogard penalty gave the Berkshire side a flattering final margin.

Next Saturday Hoppers have no competitive game.