HOPPERS failed to halt Manchester's promotion drive in Saturday's match which finished Manchester 23 Grasshoppers 18, but few would have bet against them at the interval.

An early Swindells penalty had given the home side the lead but Hoppers forwards held the upper hand, with Peter Carter particularly impressive.

Excellent finishing brought winger Iain Bruce his tenth try of the season and an Andy Parker penalty just before the break made the interval lead five points.

Hoppers were rocked in the ten minutes after the break as Manchester twice cut their defence to shreds, resulting in tries for Swindells and Langhorn.

Swindells converted both to give his side a comfortable lead.

Rob Smith had replaced Parker at the interval and had also taken on kicking responsibilities.

His penalty midway through the half was immediately responded to in kind by Swindells.

Hoppers' pressure was rewarded two minutes from time with the award of a penalty try after the home side had persistently infringed to prevent a score.

Smith converted but Hoppers had no chance to mount a last-ditch attack as Manchester took play downfield.

It was Swindells who had the last word in injury time with his third penalty.

On Saturday, Hoppers entertain local rivals Kendal who currently lie third in the league. Kick off is at 3pm.

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