Durham Tigers' slim hopes of progressing into the semi-finals of the Harry Jepson Trophy were dashed at Teesside Steelers, the reigning trophy holders defeating a lacklustre Tigers side 70-0.

Following the disappointment of a close defeat by Bridlington Bulls last week, Durham Tigers travelled to Teesside knowing they faced a daunting task if they were to keep alive their hopes of progressing beyond the pool stage of the play-offs.

Teesside - the reigning RLC champions and undefeated in the competition - have been playing ominously well as the RLC season approaches its climax.

Sadly for the Tigers, there was to be no shock result. Teesside were simply unstoppable as they drove into the defence with a mix of strong running from the forwards and attacking moves out wide from the three quarter line.

The Tigers continually put pressure on themselves, giving away possession and handing the initiative to the hosts.

Teesside scored steadily throughout the game. and the final whistle, came as a relief to a flat Durham side that seems aye peaked mid-season.

"I'm very, very disappointed at how we played," commented Durham coach Rob Jones. "Craig Swanson did well for us and was our man of the match. but really the team as a whole just did not perform at all. We didn't complete our sets and that put us under so much defensive pressure. It was always asking a lot to beat the Steelers, but I didn't expect us to lose like this, We've a lot of work on in training this week."

Teesside are now favourites to go through to the semi-finals from the group, while Durham now need to raise their game for the visit of Chester Wolves on Saturday. The Tigers have never played the Wolves before, and despite having nothing other than pride to play for determined to defeat their Northern Division visitors. The game will be played at Framwellgate Comprehensive School in Durham tomorrow (kick off 2.30pm).

* The club continues to plan ahead for the 2003 season. Anyone interested in playing for Durham Tigers should contact Lynne Wightman on (0191) 384 7779.