17th January 2009

POWERFUL centre Nigel Pratt crossed for a hat-trick of tries as Recs moved level on points with Simms Cross at the top of the NWC Premier Division.

Much of the hard work was done in the opening half by John Ledger’s men, as they built up a commanding lead playing up the City Road slope.

Second row John Rees registered the home side’s first try following a strong charge and Ste Rawsthorne converted. But Barrow hit back through hooker Damien Magee after a concerted spell of pressure.

However, a perfectly flighted pass by stand off Ryan Rogers sent in Pratt for his first try and then winger James Lacey touched down after superb handling had sent Mark Rigby clear.

Skipper Rawsthorne converted to leave the score 16-4 at the break and the dynamic loose-forward extended Pilks’ half time lead when he bulldozed through the visitors’ defence after a strong Danny Mason drive.

It was a formidable performance by Recs’ pack and towering sub Mike Loughlin’s charge was key to Pratt’s second try of the afternoon.

Pilks fluffed several more chances and were guilty of slacking off late on, which allowed Aaron Low and Chris Reid to score for Barrow’s next try.

But it was Pratt who had the final say as he dived over from short range for his hat trick try, which Rawsthorne converted.

Rees was the Commhoist man of the match and Pratt the C and S Tyres players’ player of the match.

Recs travel to Leeds in the first round of the Carnegie Challenge Cup on Saturday to face Milford Marlins. The Yorkshire outfit currently lead National League Division 2. Kick-off is 1.30pm.