A BETTER second half performance wasn’t enough to secure a win or a much deserved bonus point at Hoylake.

Ruskin were again without some regular first team players and have not yet fielded a consistent side all season which has added to their recent bad luck.

Hoylake took advantage early on and Ruskin were soon chasing a 17 points lead. Just before half time though Michael Farrelly scored a creative try in the corner which captain Fogarty converted.

Ruskin responded with two tries after quick succession by elusive winger Tress and full back Farrelly with Hoylake scoring in between.

At this point, Hoylake had a five point cushion and it looked like Ruskin could take the lead for the first time, but a case of mistaken identity saw scrum half Jon Rigeon yellow carded for a ruck infringement.

Ruskin were unable to prevent a try immediately after.

When Ridgeon returned he was involved in fight with the Hoylake number 7. Both were yellow carded.

Ruskin pressed in the last minutes, but Hoylake turned the ball over and managed to retain to score. There were excellent performances from second rower Chris Lyon and back rower Ricky Hall.

Ruskin host Glossop on Saturday for their last game of the year.