Disappointing home defeat for Siddal

Rugby league - Siddal v Leigh Miners Rangers. Danny Williams for Siddal.

Siddal lost 23-14 to Leigh Miners Rangers in today’s battle of top four sides in the Premier Division of the National Conference.

The home side led 14-10 with 17 minutes to go but Rangers scored two converted tries, with a drop goal in between, to take the spoils.

At a damp Chevinedge, the visitors drew first blood with a try from Gareth Pain after five minutes and although Jonny Youds, the other winger, was unable to convert, he kicked a penalty four minutes later.

Siddal drew level on 14 minutes when Gareth Blackburn touched down and scrum half Chris Brooke converted but Youds landed penalties after 30 and 38 minutes gave Rangers a 10-6 interval lead.

Siddal were level eight minutes after the break when Freddie Walker crossed. Billy Hammond then gave Siddal the lead on 56 minutes, Brooke missing both conversions.