TYLDESLEY RU were made to work hard by a solid Ashton Under Lyne side down at St George's Park.

Despite running out 12-5 winners, Tyldesley never really got into gear partly because of Ashton's disruptive game plan and partly because the official who was expecting to Referee a lower fixture could not keep up with the game.

The home side started well with prop Howard Hampson and winger Mick Crook combining to move the ball deep up the Ashton left flank but some good cover defence snuffed out any chance of a score.

Eventually Craig Pulman broke a tackle and his surging run was stopped just short of the line but he was able to pass inside for Mark Swanton who scored the opening try. The conversion was slotted over by Eddie Wallbank who was unlucky moments later with a penalty attempt.

On half time Ashton sucked in the Tyldesley defence and the ball was shipped quickly to the right wing for Ashton's only score of the day.

The second half was spent mainly in the Ashton half but all Tyldesley could muster was a try from Andy Dickinson. Man of the match was Shaun Pulman who ran strong all day and tackled well in the centre but Tyldesley will know they will have to raise their game next Saturday when Rossendale visit St George's Park.

The second team travelled to neighbours Wigan who had several first teamers in their squad which resulted in Tyldesley's second defeat of the season going down 12-10.

On Saturday all three senior teams meet Rossendale kick offs 2.30pm, whilst on Sunday the Colts entertain Calder Vale kick off 12.30pm.