THE Crusaders' season goal of a quick return to the Premier League is only 80 minutes away after they saw off promotion rivals Featherstone Lions 24-10 in tough conditions at Crusader Park.
Thatto got off to a flyer with a score for Jamie Tracey inside the first few minutes and before half time had extended their lead with tries for Louis Taylor and Kyle Dolan.
Shaun Quinn converted two penalties with the home side leading 16-0 at the break.
Featherstone who sit fourth in the Kingston Press National Conference League Division 1 started the brighter in the second half and hit back with a converted try before Jamie Tracey settled the ship with another after fine work by Jack Jones.
Shaun Quinn added two further penalties before the lions who fought to the end crossed for an unconverted score. The Unite Union MOM went to Adam Hesketh.
This week the NCL Team take on Skirlaugh who are one of only three teams to have beaten Thatto this term. All eyes will be on Close Street where promotion could be mathematically guaranteed. KO 2.30pm
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