Rientoul stars on Cross debut

Cadishead Rhinos 10

SHAW Cross Sharks eased into the second round of the BARLA National Cup with a nine-try demolition of Cadishead Rhinos.

With all credit going to the North West Counties side, the Sharks had too much power, pace and strength, despite the referee racking up a penalty count of 13-1 in favour of the visitors.

Shaw Cross also had two players sin-binned for what appeared to be dubious offences.

Kevin Dickens barged over for an early try and fellow prop Danny Wray followed suit soon after.

Danny Annakin used his power for a well deserved first try of the season, while captain John Rourke added a further score after good work from full-back and new signing Leigh Rientoul.

The visitors added a try and a goal but Rientoul then took charge, racing over for three tries in the space of 16 minutes to earn man-of-the-match before Cadishead grabbed a second consolation effort.

Late Sharks tries from Chris Proctor and a trademark score from Adam Bird rounded things off, while Diskin notched up eight goals to complete a comprehensive win.

The Sharks return to National Conference Division Two action on Saturday with a trip to Ovenden (ko 2pm), while they have been drawn against Widnes St Maries in the next round of the National Cup.