This result, albeit with a scratch side, will not have been what player-coach Steve Smith was looking for against their opponents from Durham Northumberland Two.

Bishop Auckland were clearly up for the clash against what they’d assumed was a first choice Whites’ line up and they took full advantage of Rovers’ notorious slack defending to score seven tries over the four quarters’ format.

The hosts also showed some tremendous defensive steel in the closing stages to deny Rovers a late consolation score.

Callum Whitehead scored the Friaragemen’s first with a strong run from his stand-in position of centre.

Danny Charters then scored a quick double on 31 and 35 minutes; the first from his own 10 metre line and the second from the Bishops’ 22.

Whitehead completed his own brace when a Tyler Dean break created a chance for the captain to cross.

The last try from Josh Healey came after Tom Stead headed for the line. He looked set to touchdown himself but played safe and passed on to the supporting Healey.