HEYSHAM Atoms kept pace with the leading pack in the charge for the Divisional Championship with an impressive victory Ince Rose Bridge.

Bridge, the previous league leaders, were brought down to earth by a fluent backline and the locals are now well placed for a charge towards the title.

Coach Dave Crow had called for the Atoms to concentrate on defence and the players responded in style.

They started brightly with early pressure setting the tone for the rest of the clash as Andy Garnet dived into the corner to register the first points before Ince touched the ball.

Then Dave McVernon went over for the second try and conversion to make it 10-0.

The third try came from a great build-up as Atoms flowed down the field before McVernon crashed in. And when Brian Cambidge marked his return from retirement' with a great try from half back, the conversion from Garnet made it 20-0.

Atoms concentration dipped and allowed Ince back in with a try under the posts - and a second try saw the score pulled back to 20-10.

But as the Atoms followers started checking their watches the nerves were finally settled as McVernon completed his hat trick and made the game safe with another smart score.

ATOMS: Randal Raines, Steven Jackson, Andy Garnet, Brian Cambidge, Gavin Winder, Andy Helme, Keith Hartlebury, Dave McVernon, Andy Aldren, Liam Hall, Gavin Helliwell, Scott Telford, Russell Birkett. Subs: Elliott Pyrah, Joe Pyrah, Shane Weed, Scott Needham.

Atoms entertain Widnes Tigers at Trimpell on Saturday (kick off 2.15)