The Quinnell brothers kick-started a deserved Richmond victory as Manchester Sale slumped to defeat hours after signing hooker Phil Greening.

Scott Quinnell barged over for Richmond after 20 minutes but Sale hit back to lead with kicks from Shane Howarth and a try from Jan Machacek.

But Craig Quinnell replied for Richmond to give them a slender half time lead.

With the wind at their backs in the second half Richmond ran in four more tries as Sale floundered.

Signing

The day started more promisingly for Sale when they announced the signing of Gloucester hooker Phil Greening.

The 23-year-old had impressed Sale coach John Mitchell with his performances on last summer's England tour to Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.

"I think he has the ability to become the best hooker in England," Mitchell said.

"You don't get too many players, especially in England, with the skills that he has. He likes to threaten the defensive line and he has tremendous ball skills."

Sale chief executive Howard Thomas said: "This signing further demonstrates our determination to challenge for honours and ultimately to be regarded as the Premier club in the country.

"We view Phil as the missing piece in our jigsaw of a squad which we believe is capable of achieving our objectives."

Greening said he had been attracted to Sale because of what he could learn from Mitchell and forward coach Graham Dawe.