It was a bad day for the Conference's three Northern clubs.
Durham were disappointing at Derby as they give up too much possession. Last season Newcastle Knights were challenging the dominance of Teesside - that won't be the case this season after a 70-point demolition job by the Steelers.
Phill Gowing and Mick Kent, who missed round one, both made up for lost time with hat-tricks. In an ominously powerful display from the Teessiders.
Sunderland fell to their second consecutive 34-24 defeat, this time against Bridlington Bulls - but with the Bulls signing a number of former professionals from defunct York Wasps, Sunderland will take heart from a creditable scoreline.
All games were played on Saturday, May 11.
Results: Derby City 30, Durham Tigers 14*; Newcastle Knights 14, Teesside Steelers 70; Sunderland City 24, Bridlington Bulls 34.
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