Match Report: (H) Doncaster Phoenix W 41-28

A nervy start by in form Hull gifted Doncaster a 14 point start. A casual tap down in the line out saw Protheroe go in for a try for the home side on 3 minutes. This was followed by a try on 14 minutes when Kettle went under the post following a missed Hull tackle. Both tries were converted by Miller.
When Hull settled and established a forward platform they were able to release their speedy backs allowing wingman Smith to cross in the corner on 23 and 40 minutes and Stafford to score out wide on 31 minutes. Despite not kicking their conversions Hull took a narrow 14-15 points lead into half time.
Immediately after the restart Hieta scored in the corner to secure the try bonus point for Hull.
A fine break from the back of the scrum led to a further try from Stafford which was converted by Birch to leave it 14-27 to Hull. Far from Doncasters heads going down they capitalised on a series of penalties conceded by Hull and Holling crossed on 59 minutes. The conversion left it 21-27 to the visitors until on 67 minutes a fine individual try by Holling converted by Miller restored the lead for Doncaster 28-27.
Hull then stirred themselves to finish strongly although it was not until the 38th minute that Hieta scored in the corner to restore Hulls lead. The conversion left it 28-34. Immediately following the restart a great kick and chase from scrum half Harding led to Stafford crossing for his third try which Birch converted.
The final score of 28-41 was a bit harsh on a Doncaster side who fought hard throughout and contributed in no small measure to a first class game.