ROCHDALE bowed out of the Powergen Challenge Cup with their heads held high despite a mauling by Leeds.

Coach Darren Abram had wanted his side to learn from the experience of playing against one of the top Super League outfits and his side did him proud.

Abram's men defended with terrific spirit and determination and never threw in the towel even though the gulf in class was easily apparent.

Leeds winger Danny Williams scored two tries inside 10 minutes but Hornets then put up an effective rearguard action for more than 20 minutes until Shane Millard dummied over.

Scott Donald and Carl Ablett then crossed as the Rhinos built a 26-0 interval lead.

Donald completed his hat-trick with two early second-half tries but Hornets dug deep, restricting Leeds to further scores by Danny McGuire, Chev Walker, Nick Scruton, Chris Feather and Ablett.

Full report in this week's Observer

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