Elland no match for hungry hosts

The hosts, relegated from the Premier Division on points difference at the end of last season, gave Elland a lesson and illustrated the big gap between the top two divisions.

East Leeds’ large but mobile forwards made good use of their safe hands whilst their fleet-footed backs gave Elland the run around.

The first try came after eight minutes when a nice inside pass caught out Elland. The goal was added.

Good backing up and quick movement led to two more tries and East Leeds then added another six points after stealing the ball.

Elland made a good counter attack but were unable to finish off and some fancy footwork and sound support play gave Leeds a 28-0 half time lead.

Elland conceded another converted try at the start of the second period but replied when passing down the line enabled Joe Nicholson to cross for an unconverted try wide on the right.

Five minutes later a fine break from Richard Crawshaw set up Tom Hall for a try which Nicholson converted but what was as good as it got for the visitors.

Poor tackling followed by a stolen ball after an intercepted pass provided two more tries for the home team.

On the final whistle Leeds added another converted score from a lovely grubber kick straight through the legs of an Elland player.

Elland picked up more injuries with Jack Fairbank, Tom Hall, Luke Leonard and Brad Radcliffe all finishing on the bench, and will be grateful for a weekend off before hosting Hunslet Warriors in 13 days’ time.