BURNLEY seconds kick-started the new year with a splendid 36-12 win over Leigh at Holden Road.

It was all one way traffic in the first half, with captain Danny Marshall, Gus Ferguson and Steve Harison keeping the home side on the front foot, and scoring some fine tries.

Despite the recent heavy rain, the pitch was in excellent condition and Burnley rotated their troops in the second half, giving manager Sam Atkin the opportunity to blood some of the fringe players who had not been involved previously.

Dec Hutchinson carried the ball well while scrum half Austin Ralph also caught the eye, releasing the backs and also defending well around the fringes.

And Burnley kept their foot on the pedal, with Harison scoring a second try and Lee Mason also going over.

The victory takes Burnley into second spot in their league and next Saturday they make the trip to face Vale of Lune at Powderhouse Lane.

Meanwhile, the Thirds were also in the winning groove, and it proved an emotional day for Ash Rothwell who came off the bench to feature in his final game before taking a year-long sabbatical to New Zealand.

The club wish him well and hope to see him at Holden Road on his return in 2017.

On the pitch, Rob Lawless provided the ammunition for fellow centre Tom Ives to opening the scoring against Bury, and his first of the season.

Matt Crowley, who usually roams the pitch as a winger, was asked to step in at number ten, and he supported a great break from experienced scrum half Ash Robinson to score.

The third try for Burnley came just after half time and the second period produced some fine rugby from both sides.

Martin Jackson and Caleb White produced some strong carries, but it was Bury who forced their way back into the game with two tries with ten minutes left.

Burnley sent on Chad Larkin and Robinson to steady the ship, and when Sam Mounsey successfully converted a penalty then Burnley were home and dry.

The Thirds have no games this weekend.

Burnley’s first team tackle Colne and Nelson at Holden Road on Saturday with this eagerly awaited derby clash kicking off at 2.15pm.

Anybody wanting to join Burnley to play senior rugby and they are aged over 17 should call 07988 122186.