Rugby Union: Hull sink Saints

HULL ended a run of six straight defeats yesterday when they knocked St Helens off the top of the Stones Bitter Championsip with a 21-16 win. Hull's two half- backs, Terry Smirk and Rob Nolan, inspired the home side with Smirk successful with four kicks and a drop goal.

In the Second Division, Nigel Heslop, the former England rugby union wing, made a triumphant start to his professional career by scoring two tries for Oldham during a 56-16 thrashing of Carlisle.

While Oldham maintained their challenge, there is no stopping the leaders, Featherstone, who won 42-12 at Swinton after a slow start. Troubled Swinton led 2-0, but then it was Rovers all the way, Owen Simpson bagging a hat-trick.

Down at the bottom, London Crusaders defeated their visitors Bramley 20-12. Mark Riley and Ian Simpson scored the vital tries after half-time.