AN entertaining game saw Hoppers make it three wins on the trot for the first time in almost two years.

Eleven tries were scored and although it ended with a comprehensive scoreline there were a number of blips in Hoppers' performance.

Hoppers claimed seven tries but defensive lapses allowed the visitors to register four. More than once Hoppers looked safe only to let Hull back into the game.

Ionians scored first with an unconverted try after 15 minutes on their first trip to the Hoppers' 22 but five minutes before half-time Alex Moffat finished off a combined move to level matters. Then a brilliant solo try by Gary Monaghan converted by Sam Houston gave Hoppers the lead. A careless pass gave Hull the gift of an interception try and conversion to make it 12-12 at the break.

Scores came at regular intervals in the second half which saw Steve Gough and Chris O'Toole come off the bench for another old boys reunion.

Gough was in immediate action with a well judged kick through the defence which gave Paul Bailey a try converted by Houston. Next on the scoresheet was Anton Cramant with a forward driven unconverted try but Hull responded in similar fashion to make the score 24-17.

Superb individualism from Richard Morton who took a tap penalty deep in his own half, raced upfield, kicked ahead and regathered for a fine try which Gough converted to make it 31-17.

Again Hull were allowed back with another try but Hoppers made sure with two more.

The first scored by Josh Williams and the second by Oliver Viney which Gough converted.

On Saturday Hoppers have a tough assignment at Halifax whom they beat 20-16 at Lightfoot Green in November.

Preston Grasshoppers 43 Hull Ionians 22