WINNINGTON Park secured a third win in succession when they defeated Tarleton 31-7 in front of a big home crowd at the weekend.
It leaves them third in RFU North Two West ahead of Saturday’s visit to De La Salle (Salford), kick-off 3pm.
Park played some great rugby against Tarleton, with captain Shaun Underdown showing great leadership and powerful running.
Sam Brookes made some crunching tackles in the backs but the whole team worked well under the September sun.
The first 13 minutes had been pretty much stalemate when scrum half James Johnson, 20 metres from the try line, broke away with a dummy pass and was tackled. The forwards recycled and second row Dave Cross powered over the line for the first try of the day. The kick was converted by Cam Flanagan.
All pictures by John Pickering
Shortly after, Park again ran the ball down the backs to score in the corner but the referee disallowed the try as he could not see the touch down.
This did not deter Park and a great run by Alex Glendinning was stopped but the supporting Dave Cross collected the ball and went over to score his second try, although this time the conversion was missed.
Matt Treacy, who has been impressive this season, was then replaced by stalwart Harry Stubbs due to an ankle injury.
Park continued to take control of the game.
Will Nelson caught a high ball, sprinted from within his own 22 nearly the length of the pitch before passing to Lee Allmark for Park’s third try.
The conversion was missed but Park finished the first half 17-0 ahead.
Park started the second half strongly and after a dominant phase camped in Tarleton’s 22.
Stubbs powered over from 10 metres out and the conversion was kicked by Flanagan.
Shortly after, Park were down to 14 men when Joe Cook was given the yellow card for foul play but his side remained in control of affairs.
Unfortunately Stubbs pulled his hamstring with an open field in front of him and had to retire from the game.
In the last five minutes Tarleton scored a converted consolation try to reward their own efforts in the game.
Park: Shaun Underdown, Ross Morrin, Mike Eaves, Dave Cross, Joe Cook, Gary Dykes, Matt Treacy, Alex Glendinning, James Johnson, Cameron Flanagan, Will Morrillo, Lee Allmark, Sam Brookes, Will Nelson, Dan Berg, Harry Stubbs, Chris Twigg and Alex Burrage.
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