Oxford RL 28-42 Rochdale Hornets

Paul Crook had a 100% conversion rate on his return to the team after injury

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Hornets staged a superb come back at Oxford to win a game that could easily have slipped away when Oxford increased their lead to 10 points early in the second half. The win moves Hornets up to second in the division.

Leather opened the scoring for Oxford but the score was soon level when David Hull powered through several tackles on a free play to cross the line. Crook, back in the team after injury, converted.

Hornets went ahead for the only time in the first half when Joe Greenwood carried four Oxford defenders over the line to score. Crook added the extras.

Oxford leveled the score,then went back in front by making the most of a loose ball to score and extended their lead as Hornets fell for a sucker punch.

Half time: Oxford 22-12 Hornets

Oxford went ten points ahead before Hornets finally awoke from their slumber. Good work from Crook set Ratu off and a gallop to the line. Crook converted to bring Hornets back within 10 points.

The Hornets fight back then stepped up a gear as Dave Hull scored his second of the game before Thompson, showing incredible pace, scored twice to take Hornets in front. Crook kicking both.

A try on the sixth tackle by Jordan Case was the icing the cake for Hornets. Crook converting again to register 100% with his boot on his return to the team.

After the game, Jordan Case said: "Cracking win today. The boys dig deep and we blew them away when we started to play."

Paul Crook said: "Great to be back on the field. Fair to say I'm not the greatest spectator!

"Great win. The lads showed loads of character and dug deep second half to take the game and deny a bonus point."

Hornets took a large contingent of travelling support to register the biggest away following in Oxford this season.

A spokesman for the club said: "Hornets away support today was superb. Big thank you to all those who made the trip."