Two-try Shickell stars for Elland

Coach Karl Fairbank had stressed the importance of the fixture after his side’s Challenge Cup exit at home to useful Featherstone Lions the previous week and his players delivered in a scrappy contest.

Last year’s Division Two runners-up took the lead after 15 minutes through loose foward Andy Shickell, half-back Phil Taylor converting.

Sharks, who had lost their league opener at Pilkington Recs, drew level with a score from Curtis Sidebottom converted by Danny Flowers.

It looked as if it might not be Elland’s day when winger Oliver Fairbank had two tries disallowed for forward passes.

However, man of the match Shickell gave the visitors a 12-6 interval lead with a try again converted by Taylor.

Elland had another score chalked off when Chris Dyson crossed and the referee ruled there had been a double movement.

However, Dyson was not to be denied shortly after and although Ben Hinsley missed the kick - Elland had forgotten their kicking tee - the gap was 10 points.

Elland lost Joe Fradgey with a twisted ankle before Taylor kicked a penalty to complete the scoring.