A THIRD consecutive victory ensured Underbank's ascent in the Conference National League continues.

Despite heavy rain affecting The Cross pitch, a 42-12 win over Gateshead Storm consolidates Rangers’ position in the top six.

After successes against Leeds Academiks and Hemel, player-coach Aaron Perrin said there is now a lot of belief in the side.

“That’s three wins on the bounce, the team’s playing with a lot of confidence and we’re really looking forward to the big home game against Bramley next Saturday,” he said.

Ahead of the game the hosts had endured a 22-day break since their last fixture.

And, no sooner had the referee blown for kick-off, it was apparent that the rest had paid off.

After six minutes, an energetic opening for the home side resulted in John Birt scoring the first try.

Then six minutes later Perrin pierced his way through the visitors’ struggling defence to extend Underbank's lead.

In spite of a Simon Ayre try, pressure on the Gateshead back line failed to relent, with an inspired Birt crossing the line on two further occasions to put Bank in complete command.

To compound their misery, substitute Darren Greenwood increased the deficit to 28-6 before half-time.

Adding the finishing touch to build-up work from Bahadori and Jackson, Fijian Napoleoni Vinaka helped Rangers carry on their form shown in the first period.

But, after a sneaky Paul Lord try, the home side started to become complacent and inevitably were punished when Daniel Chirwa crossed the line.

Following several missed opportunities to close the gap again, the ball was moved swiftly onto the wing for Max Berry to score and make sure of the win.

A delighted Perrin said the victory will give his side inspiration for future games.

“Our goal is to make a real impression on the league in the second half of the season and this win gives us a tremendous platform to build that push towards the finals.”