HAYDOCK staged another cracking contest and this time claimed the spoils in an high-scoring clash that saw some exciting rugby played by both teams.

St James struck first with a try wide out after just two minutes to lead 4-0. But Haydock quickly responded when good work by Cunliffe and Rigby paved the way for Tickle to score. Cunliffe converted to put Haydock 6-4 in front.

Orrell regained the advantage on 17 minutes with a disputed try under the posts. But five minutes the lead changed hands again when Cahalin went over from acting half-back and Cunliffe converted to make it 12-10.

In an end-to-end encounter Orrell looked to be getting the upper hand when they opened up an eight-point gap with two more tries and a goal. But just before half-time Cunliffe's break and smart pass sent Rigby in. Cunliffe converted to leave the game delicately balanced at 18-20 at half-time.

Haydock started the second half brilliantly and rattled St James with four tries in a 15-minutes spell.

On 42 minutes Cunliffe collected a wayward pass on halfway and scooted 50 metres to put Haydock back in front at 22-20.

Then Cunliffe was involved again, combining with Tickle to send Lowe bursting through for the try. Cunliffe converted.

Lowe and Rigby then paved the way for Boland to touch down and three minutes later Haydock were over again when good work by Tickle got Rigby in for his second, which Cunliffe converted to make it 38-20.

It was all Haydock now and Rigby's third try on 65 minutes, following good work by Lowe, saw them in an unassailable lead at 42-20.

In the last 15 minutes the home side eased up on the pedal and Orrell took advantage to claim two late tries.

Outstanding for Haydock in a great team effort were Cunliffe, Rigby, Bloor, Speed and Lowe.