WINNINGTON Park halted a sequence of three successive away defeats after scoring three stylish tries at lowly Oldershaw on Saturday.

It prompted Roger Pickering to praise his players’ adaptability afterwards.

“We showed that we have the nous to play against an opponent that carries the ball close to the ruck,” said Park’s head coach.

“We knew we had to be determined in defence, and smart when we won back possession.”

A scoreless opening quarter of an hour, during which the hosts rumbled forward at a steady pace, produced few chances for either side.

Cameron Flanagan kicked a penalty to put Park in front, only for Oldershaw to restore parity with a three-pointer of their own.

It acted as a catalyst for Winnington to produce their best rugby of the contest, and wing man Craig Lamb benefitted from sustained forward pressure and quick hands to touch down on the left.

Full-back Jack Phillips then claimed his first try for the club, making the most of a clever kick from Flanagan that fooled a flat-footed defence.

The young fly-half converted on both occasions, establishing a 17-3 interval lead.

A spell of attrition followed the break, and Oldershaw reduced the gap to six points with a try and a penalty.

Park gave themselves breathing space when replacement Nic Clawson scythed his way past attempted tackles on the left before dotting down out wide.

Flanagan’s flawless afternoon continued when he added extras with a fine kick from the touchline.

The home team, beaten now in seven matches this term, added a disputed try to their total in added time.

Winnington await a visit from Ruskin Park, who have lost four of their five away games to date, this weekend.

Park | Eaves, Josh Brown, Snasdell, Dave Cross, Crosby, Kieran Williams, Treacy, Danny Williams, Allmark, Flanagan, Lamb, Lewis Pickering, Morritt, Gibbins, Phillips Replacements Ridgway, Sheppard, Clawson Tries Lamb, Phillips, Clawson Cons Flanagan (3) Pen Flanagan