Two games in to the season and Richmond director of rugby Steve Hill is already counting the cost of a hugely competitive National Division One.

Richmond suffered four front row injuries in last week’s defeat at Plymouth Albion and collected two more in Saturday’s 23-16 win over Hull Ionians.

Ronnie McLean-Dents and Charlie Broughton scored the crucial tries with full back Rob Kirby kicking 13 points.

“I thought our defence was much improved and the tries taken by McLean and Broughton were finished superbly,” said Hill.

“Rob Kirby is kicking brilliantly and yet again Will Warden led the team by example. Four hard earned, but well deserved points.”

Fylde are the hosts on Saturday.