Thornton Cleveleys 39 Bolton RUFC 24: BOLTON found themselves overpowered and still looking for their first win in two months.

They started well and raced in front with three early tries, one starting from their own try line, as their backs showed too much pace for the Thornton outfit.

Number eight Hartwig Driemeyer finished off the first, with Mark Higgins and Kyle Green adding further scores, while stand-off Mark Bolton kicked two conversions.

That, however, was as good as it got as the home side's larger forwards took control of the game.

They managed to starve an under-strength Bolton side of possession, and got back into the game through their heavier pack.

By half-time Fleetwood were 22-19 in front, and in the second half Bolton's smaller front five forwards had a terrible time as the home team mauled and drove at everything.

Two pushover tries eventually sealed the match, and although Bolton did have some chances to close the gap, particular from good runs by Pete Hackin, they were never able to get back into the game.

Fleetwood 2XI 21

Bolton 2nds 17

Bolton were hoping to build on their recent success and move up the league, but the home side, needing a win to avoid relegation, went two tries up in the first ten minutes.

In the second quarter Bolton finally got their act together and started to attack the home side with some stylish rugby, debutant winger Sam Mc Guinness making some good runs, well supported by flanker Ash Cooper.

Towards half time a flowing move started by scrum half Mike Gaffey, involving centres Dave Hulme and Peter Marriott saw veteran full back Andy Leigh go over.

In the second half, the introduction of back row forward Lloyd Green saw Bolton maintain their attacking play, and hooker JP Hardman powered his way over for an uncoverted try, which saw the scores narrow to 14-10 in Fleetwood's favour.

Bolton continued to dominate the proceedings but could not convert pressure into points and paid the price when Fleetwood extended the lead with a breakaway try.

Bolton did respond with a Hulme try, converted by Keech, but despite a brave finish, they failed to close the gap.

Bolton 3rds 18 Fleetwood 3

Bolton achieved a confident victory that ensured their league status for another season.

A good start from Bolton led to a Danny Barlow penalty. This was quickly followed by a try from flanker Tony Davenport with Barlow adding the conversion.

Fleetwood pulled a penalty goal back before half-time, but a Wayne Banks try and another Barlow penalty finally settled matters for Bolton.