Preston Grasshoppers 28 Stoke-on-Trent 10 HOPPERS opened their Pilkington Cup campaign with a win, but at the cost of injuries to three-quarters Andy Taylorson and Nick Booth.

Stoke took the lead with a penalty by Ascroft, but Kerry responded with two penalties to give Hoppers a narrow lead at the break.

Early in the second half a good handling movement led to a Carter try which Kerry converted to increase the lead.

A third Kerry penalty followed before the move of the match gave Kerry a try which he also converted.

Stoke hit back with a converted try but a Neil Ashton try seven minutes from time sealed Hoppers' win.

On Saturday, Hoppers have a home Courage League game against Sheffield.

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