Featherstone Rovers pipped, Batley Bulldogs bitten but Dewsbury Rams raise the bar

Featherstone have found a 'bit of magic' in Louis Jouffret. PIC: Jonathan Gawthorpe/JPIMedia

Tries from Jarrod O’Connor, Louis Jouffret and Gareth Gale weren’t enough on the day, as Will Dagger and Jamie Ellis ensured that KR came out on top. Rovers got off to a strong start but trailed 10-4 by half-time.

James Webster’s men got themselves back ahead in the opening minutes of the second-half thanks to a piece of magic from Jouffret. The Frenchman used his quick feet to collect his own kick through and score.

Gale, who signed a two-year deal for Featherstone this week, then continued his fine pre-season form with a try. He was found brilliantly by Craig Hall on the wing and scored in the corner, giving Rovers a 14-10 lead but it was the Robins’ Jamie Ellis who had the last word.

Anthony Bowman's making his presence felt at Batley Bulldogs. PIC: Bruce Fitzgerald/JPIMedia

Anthony Bowman touched down for Batley Bulldogs 10 minutes from time against Hull FC.

But by that time it was all pretty much over with Hull running out comfortable 38-6 victors as they showed off their preparedness for the big kick-off.

Dewsbury Rams, meanwhile, gave coach Lee Greenwood something to smile about with a 25-12 victory at the Tetley’s Stadium over Bradford Bulls.

Frazer Morris, Jon Magrin (2) and Joe Martin grabbed tries for the Rams, whilst Will Oakes was on point with the conversions, scoring all four.