Rugby League: Halifax step up pace

HALIFAX INFLICTED a nine-try demolition of neighbours Huddersfield to win 51-18 at The Shay. After Graham Holroyd and Bobbie Goulding had exchanged early penalties, Damian Gibson crossed for a Blue Sox try. Chris Chester then grabbed a brace before Nick Pinkney raced 70 metres to cross over.

Holroyd converted all four and the Sox led 26-2 at half-time. Danny Seal touched down 64 seconds after the restart for Halifax, but then the Giants hit back with Andrew Tangata-Toa, Paul Loughlin and Andy Cheetham all crossing in a six-minute spell to make it 32-18.

Halifax battled back and Gavin Clinch crossed for try No 6, added a drop goal and scored the try of the game, racing 80 metres to cross over.

A change of leadership at London Broncos revived their fortunes at The Stoop yesterday. A crushing midweek defeat at Bradford spelt the end for coach Dan Stains. But in his first game in charge, new coach Les Kiss inspired the Broncos to an eight-try rout as they beat Sheffield Eagles 44-12.

Centre Chris Ryan scored tries either side of half-time and winger Tulsen Tollett racked a 16-point haul with six goals and a try with further tries from Andrew Wynyard, Robbie Beazley, John Timu and a pairfrom Karle Hammond.

For Sheffield, Dave Watson and Martin Pearson both scored consolations.