Mowden made the perfect opening, striking first through Ben DOUGLAS to take an early lead with Flynn WARD adding the extras. However, that would prove to be the only time the visitors were in front.

A turnover from the hosts sparked their response, with Tom Ailes crossing before Sam Freeman came with a successful conversion to level the scores. Freeman then produced a superb solo effort to edge Hoppers ahead, and momentum quickly swung in favour of the home side as they added further scores before the break.

The second half began in similar fashion, with Preston securing their bonus-point try early on.

To Mowden’s credit, there was a determined response. Ben DOUGLAS grabbed his second of the afternoon and Reuben DYER also crossed the whitewash as Mowden looked to build pressure and claw their way back into the contest with the mighty Flynn WARD converting both tries.

But the hosts proved clinical, capitalising on territory and possession to extend their advantage with a series of well-taken tries. James BENT added a late score for Darlington Mowden Park, but it was not enough to prevent Preston from pulling clear and claiming all five points.

Despite the result, Mowden showed flashes of attacking quality and will look to regroup quickly as the attention turns to our next fixture.

Next up, Mowden welcome Fylde to the Darlington Arena on 14th March

COME ON PARK!!!