Rugby League: Crusaders' cruise

TWO TRIES in the last six minutes took London Crusaders into the third round of the Regal Trophy with a 26-12 win over First Division Featherstone Rovers yesterday. Mark Johnsson and Abi Ekoku ensured victory for the Second Division side despite Matt Calland's 68th-minute try that put Rovers back in the game.

Another First Division side to perish were Sheffield. They fell 8-6 to two tries by Batley's scrum-half Glen Tomlinson. His first try had equalised the score but Mark Aston's penalty before half-time put Sheffeld ahead again. With Batley in charge Tomlinson then broke through on half-way and weaved his way to the line.

Wakefield also had an unhappy visit to Second Division opposition, losing 28-12 to Carlisle and having David Woods dismissed after eight minutes for a high tackle. Twenty minutes later Carlisle were 20 points ahead.

Wigan were given a shock by Whitehaven before ending up 22-8 winners. Darren Williams, making his debut because of Martin Offiah's ommision, scored a try that put them 12-0 up but David Seeds' try and goals by Steve Maguire reduced the gap.

Two tries in the last six minutes, the second by Simon Haughton, also on his debut, ensured the holders their place in today's draw.