CHESTER reignited their Division Two North title hopes with an assured 24-5 victory over Peterborough Lions at Hare Lane.

A crucial win moved Jan Van Deventer’s side within two points of leaders Hull Ionians, who lost 7-3 at Stourbridge,as they exacted revenge for a shock defeat at the struggling Lions earlier in the campaign.

Played in blustery conditions, the hosts started strongly and crossed for the opening try inside the opening 10 minutes.

The lead was stretched to 10 points soon after when Andy Oakden burst clear to touch down for Chester’s second try.

The Lions rallied and reduced arrears when Marius Andrijauskas touched down to give the visitors hope.

But Chester quickly reasserted their dominance when number 8 Shay Owen dotted down near the posts with James Robbins converting to make it 17-5 at the interval.

The bonus point was wrapped up early in the second half when Mike Craven crossed and Robbins converted.

Delighted head coach Jan Van Deventer said: “After a stop-start month, this was an important victory.

“Most of the damage was done in that first half, which was just as well because the conditions were terrible and the game got more and more disjointed as it went on.

“ We looked comfortable and in control and it’s a result that keeps us in a strong position.”