Chester Gladiators moved back to the head of North West Men's League Division Four with a convincing 42-16 win at Garswood Stags.

Chester ran in eight tries at Billinge Road to move back above Rochdale Cobras on points difference with a game in hand.

Despite being on the wrong end of a lop-sided penalty count, the Gladiators defended magnificently to repel a wave of Garswood attacks.

Gladiators were a constant threat with ball in hand, although still look capable of stepping things up in the coming weeks.

Second-row forward Lee Rusowicz touched down for two tries and was well supported with six team-mates crossing the whitewash.

Ben Stelmaszek, Craig Jones, Jonny Rae, Kellum Friday, Mark Kingsley and Tom Roberts touched down with Kingsley and Billy Brickhill sharing kicking duties.

Given the absence of regulars including Aled Davies, Cameron Hogg and Chris Young, this was an impressive performance and result against the team that will oppose Chester in the NWML Shield final in September.

Next up for Chester is a home game with Westhoughton Lions at The Cheshire County Sports Club on Saturday, August 1 (2.30pm).