Egremont Rangers 14

Woolston Rovers 22

By DAVE WHALLEY

ROVERS produced a tremendous performance to end the unbeaten home record of the reigning National Conference League champions.

Rovers took the lead with a penalty goal from full back Mark Wallington but Egremont hit back when winger Graeme Colley touched down. Robert Purdham landed the conversion and added a penalty goal.

Then Rovers scored a classic try. Half backs Graham Smith and Nigel Quarmby combined to send Wallington away. He found second row Tim Iddon who off-loaded to prop Mark Shephard to complete the 80 yard move at the posts. Smith goaled.

Rovers profited from a big slice of luck. A drop goal attempt by Smith cannonned off the post and hooker Mike Briggs was first to react and went over. Smith converted to give Rovers a six point advantage.

Egremont responded when slick passing created an overlap for centre Dylan Stainton to go over.

Iddon was sin-binned for holding down shortly before the break and Purdham's penalty made it 14-14.

From the restart, Egremont knocked the ball on. From the scrum a set move between Smith, Quarmby and centre James Brabin sent determined substitute Richard Hudd in for a try.

Two further penalties from the boot of Smith saw Rovers move eight points clear and despite the constant efforts of the massive Cumbrian pack, the superb Woolston tackling saw them to a memorable victory.

The man of the match was awarded to Quarmby. He was run close by inspirational captain Smith, Liam Horrigan, Shephard and Briggs.

Rovers: Mark Wallington; Rob Blackmore, Mike Carter, James Brabin, David Lomax; Nigel Quarmby, Graham Smith; Mark Shephard, Mike Briggs, Paul Foster, Tim Iddon, Eddie Harris, Liam Horrigan. Subs: David Hudd, Richard Hudd.

Tomorrow, Saturday, Rovers are at home to Castleford Lock Lane in the National Conference League Premier Division. Kick off is 2.30pm at Bennett's Rec, Padgate.

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