Dewsbury Rams suffer defeat to champions Featherstone

The Rams fell behind to a Ian Hardman try after 32 minutes but they fought back well and deservedly led 6-4 at half-time.

Ryan Esders levelled matters with a 35th minute try and although Patch Walker's conversion attempt hit a post, the stand-off was on target with a penalty soon after to edge Dewsbury ahead.

Andy Kain and Matty Dale scored early second half-tries for Rovers and two Liam Finn conversions put the visitors 16-6 in front.

Austin Buchanan got Dewsbury back into the game with a 62nd minute unconverted try but Kain scored his second. Finn converted and then added a penalty to make it 24-10 before Walker replied with a last minute penalty for the Rams.

Match report and pictures in Friday's Reporter.