Down on players but not on spirit, the Marlins dug deep to record a huge 56-18 victory.

Knox started and finished the scoring in the romp, crashing over in the second minute of play. Mick Judd converted for a very early 6-0 lead.

Owens then scored an unconverted try for the visitors before Deal crossed, with Judd making no mistake this time around for a 16-0 lead.

The Hurricanes were able to get themselves on the board with a try to Mills but any hope of a comeback by half time was quickly halted with another Marlins try, this time to centre McPhillips.

Deal then crossed for his second try of the afternoon before Mills also bagged a brace for Harrington.

Deal's good work in crossing the stripe came undone when he was sent to the sin bin as his team went into the sheds up 26-12.

Fullback Davy was the next to post points for the Marlins before Mills completed his hattrick for the losing team.

Knox barged his way over in the 53rd minute, followed by tries to Davy and Sheldrock.

To make matters worse for the Hurricanes, fullback Wallis was sent to the sin bin, allowing Knox to grab his third try of the afternoon and complete a 56-18 victory.

The Marlins are now close to nabbing top spot on the competition ladder, with the Kendall Blues still holding the mantle.