COACH Matt Farr was full of praise for Winnington Park’s second-half display against Anselmians on Saturday.

However, a disappointing first period meant they were left with too much to do to avoid a 48-38 defeat.

Park went into the half-time break 34-7 down before mounting a stirring fightback, with Shaun Underdown running in a hat-trick of tries.

Joe Cook, Dan Williams and Jimmy Moran also scored as the hosts took a bonus point but nothing more at Burrows Hill.

“It was a very disappointing first half,” Farr said.

“The players took 30 minutes to get into the game and get focused. This was too late with an uphill battle to get back into the game.

“We played well in the second half and looked like a different team.

“Shaun Underdown had a fantastic game along with Gary Dykes, who tackled his heart out.

“I am disappointed with the loss. The team need to play and be focused from the start of the game if we are to stay in this league, which is tough.”

Underdown scored Park’s only try of the first half while he also spent 10 minutes in the sin bin for dissent.

Two more Underdown tries just after half time dragged his side back into the game, but the visitors composed themselves to score another converted effort.

Cook burst through a gap after some strong mauling from the home forwards to grab their fourth try but unfortunately, Park switched off again to allow Anselmians through their defences.

After a visiting player was sin-binned, however, Park capitalised as Williams crossed in the corner from the resulting penalty.

With five minutes left, some good running from Park put Moran over but they could not force another score.

Winnington Park: Mike Eaves, Jake Cornwell, Shaun Underdown, Matt Treacy, Dan Williams, Dave Cross, Sam Brookes, Cameron Flanagan, Chris Twigg, Alex Burrage, Gary Dykes, Dan Berg, Matt Cross, Matt Fowler, Luke Cannings. Subs: Alex Glendinning,Joe Cook, Jimmy Moran