POCKLINGTON'S promotion hopes suffered a mortal blow when they went down 13-9 at home to Bradford Salem.

The two clubs had swapped places in second in the Yorkshire Two table no fewer than six times since Christmas, but Bradford's victory now puts them in the driving seat for the run-in.

With the wind, Pocklington took a seventh minute lead through Kevin Bowling's long penalty. But they were then denied possession by Bradford's experienced, street-wise pack, who used fair means and foul to stop Pocklington making progress.

Bradford managed to camp in home territory for long periods . Then, on the turnaround, they drove over from close range for a converted try.

Pock had the more dangerous backs and though they were now facing the strong wind they threw the ball around with enterprise, though their opportunities were limited.

A couple of dangerous attacks ended with Bradford killing the ball and Bowling kicking two more penalties to edge his side back in front.

But Bradford rumbled up field and banged over a drop goal to regain the lead, then sealed victory with a late penalty.

Updated: 10:54 Monday, March 07, 2005