ONCE again Hoppers contrived to pile up problems for themselves and lose a match which was there for the taking.

They made a bright start but conceded a try to Darlington's big pack at a line out after ten minutes.

After a period of error strewn rugby by both sides Paul Bailey pulled three points back with a penalty - Hoppers only reward for a period of pressure.

This was cancelled out with a penalty to Darlington on half time leaving the score at 8-3. Hoppers had their best spell early in the second half. A try by Stuart Sylvester converted by Bailey with a magnificent kick from the touchline edged Hoppers in front then Oliver Viney lit up the proceedings with a great try running in from half way line after Jamie Greenlees had created the opportunity.

Bailey's conversion put Hoppers 17-8 up, but they immediately conceded a penalty to reduce the gap to six points.

This should have been extended but Greenlees, following an interception, put too much on his kick ahead and the ball went dead when a try looked a certainty.

In the last ten minutes Hoppers got into a real mess and let Darlington in for two tries, one of which was converted, to put the seal on a diabolical performance.

On Saturday Hoppers visit Kendal and there will have to be a marked improvement to avoid further embarassment.

Final score: Darlington 23

Preston Grasshoppers 17