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Page last updated at 08:46 GMT, Monday, 25 May 2009 09:46 UK

Knights thrash hapless Skolars

York City Knights

York City Knights made the perfect response to last week's defeat at Rochdale by thrashing London Skolars 80-6 at the New River Stadium.

Danny Ratcliffe and Tom Hodgson both scored a hat-trick of tries despite Hodgson playing out of position.

Director of rugby James Ratcliffe told BBC Radio York: "We probably played very well for 75 minutes of the game.

"I'm disappointed not to keep a clean sheet but can't be too harsh on them. They've set their standards high."

He added: "They're really disappointed that they've let six points in."

If we get our house in order we'll live with anyone in this division

James Ratcliffe

The Skolars defended poorly but Ratcliffe said: "You can only beat what's put in front of you, we never even spoke about London, all week we only spoke about what we do.

"We've found a new winger in Tom Hodgson haven't we, and he's disappointed with his overall game, he's come off and said it's probably the worst game he's played all season."

Ratcliffe made special mention of the quality of the support play that led to many of the 14 tries.

"We can get some good players who'll make the inspirational play (but) it's the unselfish bits that I look for as a coach," he said.

The Knights picked up a few injuries on a "very, very hard, undulating" pitch.

"Dave (Clayton) turned an ankle in the corner," Ratcliffe added, "Wayne McHugh's gone down a pothole and fallen on his hip."

Paul March came off for long spells in both halves but Ratcliffe says it was just precautionary, after picking up a slight rib injury in training.

Now the Knights prepare to take on Championship One leaders Dewsbury next week.

"It's a massive week for us, we want to test ourselves against the best," added Ratcliffe.

"If we get our house in order we'll live with anyone in this division."



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see also
Ratcliffe furious after York loss
18 May 09 |  Rugby League
Knights hold on to beat Cougars
05 May 09 |  Rugby League
Knights wait on fitness of March
01 May 09 |  Rugby League
Knights keep interest in Andrews
30 Apr 09 |  Rugby League
Knights enjoy win at Workington
26 Apr 09 |  Rugby League
Penalty count baffles Ratcliffe
12 Apr 09 |  Rugby League


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