POCKLINGTON RUFC closed the gap on the North One East pace-setters with a seven-try 48-15 victory over lowly Old Crossleyans.

Pocklington were out of sight and had a try bonus in the bag by the end of the first half when they led 38-10.

Though they slackened off after the break, they still ran out easy winners.

They were ahead within five minutes, powerful flanker Jack Holbrough charging up the middle then sending skipper and scrum half Ben Rees sprinting over, Billy Hardy converting.

Hardy quickly added a penalty, then converted Pocklington’s second try when waves of home attacks ended with centre Matt White slicing through.

Crossleyans hit back with a converted try but Pocklington pulled clear as wing Tim Nixon crashed over, then Holbrough dented the defence before good handling from the threequarters sent fullback Jack Fletcher in at the corner for the score. Hardy kicked both conversions.

Crossleyans countered with a converted try and a penalty but Pocklington finished the half with more good back play that saw White power over for his second try and Hardy adding the extras.

Pocklington eased up after the interval and Crossleyans enjoyed a spell on the offensive.

But Pocklington took over again and battered at the visitors’ line until they gained a penalty try.

A Crossleyans breakaway gave them another score, but Pocklington had the final say with their seventh touchdown from a lineout catch and drive, number eight Matt Davies getting the ball down.