Albion turn on power to extend winning run and stay top of table

PLYMOUTH Albion reinforced their status as National League One pacesetters with an emphatic 52-24 victory away to Dings Crusaders, stretching their winning run to eight matches to maintain their grip on top spot.

- By PABLO CHEEKS

Angus Hodges makes a break

(PHOTOS: ALEX WILLIAMSON)

At a venue which has often proved awkward for visiting sides, Albion delivered a ruthless first-half performance to take control early and never truly relinquish it, running in eight tries in total at Shaftesbury Park. While Dings rallied after the break, Albion's attacking depth and composure ensured there was only ever one outcome.

The home side began with intent and enjoyed early territory, but Albion struck first with clinical precision. After weathering the opening exchanges, the visitors opened the scoring in the 16th minute when Frankie Dart finished well, with Iwan Jenkins adding the conversion to settle any early nerves.

The home side answered back almost immediately, however, managing to put pressure on Albion's defensive line. Sam Cantwell crossed the line to close the gap and, although the conversion attempt drifted wide, Dings proved they would not be a pushover.

Dings’ task was made more difficult when Thomas Foot was shown a yellow card midway through the first half, and Albion wasted little time exploiting the numerical advantage. Louie Gulley crossed for his first try of the afternoon on 27 minutes, with Jenkins adding the extras to stretch the lead further.