Thornhill Trojans threw themselves a massive lifeline in their quest for Premier Division survival with this brilliant victory over Oulton Raiders.

As the Trojans look to overtake Castleford Panthers and haul themselves out of the bottom three relegation places these two league points were much appreciated.

However, the manner in which the Trojans gained the two points was extra special as they opened the game with a strong attacking performance and ended the game with a Herculean effort on defence.

Chris Walker surges upfield for the first of his two tries.

Thornhill’s flying winger Chris Walker scored the visitors only two tries inside the games opening 5 minutes to catch Oulton cold.

Walker’s first try came after only 54 seconds of play as Thornhill hit Outlon right from the kick off. The game kicked off and a storming tackle from Scott Dyson forced an Oulton player to spill the ball straight away. Thornhill then worked the ball along the attacking line and Rob Copley sent out a pass to winger Chris Walker. Walker sprinted away on a glorious run to touch down between the posts. James Craven converted.

Thornhill came straight back at Oulton and ran the ball well. Michael Stewart and Richard Bostock made good ground before Chris Walker once again broke free. This time Walker broke from inside his own half to stride away and over for a long range try. James Craven to see Thornhill lead 12-0 after only 5 minutes of play.

Man of the match for Thornhill was full back Johnny Campbell for the way in which he not only linked well in the attacking line but also pulled off a series of last ditch try saving tackles. Campbell’s enthusiasm was matched by several of his team-mates as Thornhill battled for their Premier Division survival. Chris Walker looked dangerous throughout as did Anthony Broadhead who seemed capable of unlocking the Oulton defence any given opportunity.

After this initial set back Oulton steadied and began to make Thornhill realise they were in for a tough game.

Then came the first of several sin binning during the game. There was a flare up involving Liam Morley and Joe Hawley where both players were seen to push each other about. The referee intervened and showed both players a yellow card.
 

It was straight after these sin binning that Outlon scored their first try. The ball was worked along the attacking line as Outlon swung play across the field. Eventually an overlap was created and Gavin Wood stepped over for a try which Sash Brook converted.

Oulton scored only a few minutes later after Thornhill had been penalised for a high tackle. Play was worked out wide and after one Thornhill defender had been beaten Oli Graham sold wonderful dummy to beat another defender and went over for an unconverted try.

The Trojans celebrate after the win which keeps their season alive.

 The second half started with Thornhill looking to defend their two point lead. As the half wore on the visitors became increasing frustrated by a penalty count which was heavily against them.

However, good fortune did smile on them with Outlon having an off day with their goal kicking. Several kickable attempts at goal were off target giving some reprieve to the Trojans.

But then Thornhill suffered a set back when player coach Scott Dyson was sin binned for a high tackle. This time Danny Elston was on target for the Raiders to level the score.

Despite being a man down Thornhill stood strong and defended well against an Oulton onslaught.

After being restored to a full contingent Thornhill were awarded a penalty and James Craven added the crucial two points to put his team in front.

Oulton then really did put the Thornhill defence to the test when with little over 10 minutes of the game left they had Scott Dyson once again sin binned for a high tackle. James Folan made his feelings about the decision known to the referee and he was also shown a yellow card. This meant that Thornhill had to play out the closing stages of the game with only eleven men.

Thornhill defended admirably and held on to secure a much needed league victory. It was a very tired but jubilant Thornhill team which left the field at Oulton.

Match report compiled by Andrew Byram.  Match Photos here