A SUPER-charged derby lived up to full expectations and gave the largest crowd of the season at Mint Bridge a thrilling game to savour with a nail-biting climax.

Hoppers hit full stride from the opening minutes and before Kendal knew where they were they were trailing to a try scored by centre Michael Lough after his surging 60-metre run up the left touchline.

Adam Pate, back for Kendal after his annual holiday, kicked a 12th-minute penalty - his opening attempt at goal five minutes earlier had rebounded off the right-hand upright - the opportunity coming from Luke Ladell's incisive run off his wing.

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