Reading 20, Preston Grasshoppers 3

HOPPERS' first visit to Reading saw their disappointing late season run continue.

Desperate for a win to keep alive their feint hopes of avoiding relegation, the Berkshire side's determination paid dividends.

With Hoppers pack coming off second best, University scrum half Charlie Du Pre was faced with a difficult afternoon on his first start for Hoppers. Early pressure from Reading should have produced points but mistakes were frequent. All Hoppers had to show was a break from defence by Chris Stewart which only provided momentary respite.

The game was all Reading and it was no surprise when scrum half Pearce found a gap to score under the posts and give Richards a simple conversion.

A typical Gary Monaghan run set up Hoppers' first attack but a pulled hamstring saw the centre's involvement at an end.

Reading then scored an unconverted try courtesy of centre Wyatt.

An altercation in the Reading 22 saw the referee rule in Hoppers' favour, giving Chris Glynn the chance to reduce the arrears with a penalty just before the interval.

Reading increased their lead three minutes after the break when Warren took dvantage of some ineffectual tackling to claim their third try.

A resolute defence held firm and when Hoppers lost possession without scoring, the game was as good as over.

A caution for Mike Sword and a late penalty from Richards were rare talking points in the final quarter.

Hoppers wind up their league programme on Saturday when a big crowd is expected for the local derby with Fylde. Kick off is at 3pm.