RU: Dukinfield ran out comprehensive winners against a Runcorn side that seemed more interested in rough stuff than playing rugby union.

A kick off delayed by five minutes and the subsequent lack of light ensured that the match was shortened to 70 minutes playing time.

Dukinfield began brightly, repeatedly winning line outs but were shocked when Runcorn scored a soft eighth minute try.

The visitors then committed a series of petty fouls from which scrum-half Tim Spiers capitalised.

Spotting a gap he took a quick penalty, spinning the ball out to Mike Frankish to score in the corner after 13 minutes.

Seven minutes later Dukinfield took the lead with a superb combination try.

Prop Dermot Nolan took the ball from a ruck, running 25 metres before handing to Frankish who scored under the posts for a converted try.

Captain John Gallagher finished off a flowing move 10 minutes later with another converted try.

By now Runcorn were becoming frustrated and turned to rough-house tactics in a bid to get the upperhand.

One such incident during the second half ended with a Dukinfield centre being punched by Runcorn player as the visitors went to touch a ball down in-goal.

Creditably, Dukinfield focused on the match instead, scoring three tries in 10 minutes.

Martin Bambien raced over, Frankish completed his hat-trick and Gaz Callan converted his own try to end proceedings.

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