In Game 2 Cumbria had the chance to wrap up the BARLA Three Counties Championship for the first time ever with a game to spare as reigning champions Lancashire made the long trip to Egremont Rangers ARLFC.
In ‘four seasons’ weather the visitors playing with wind took a ten lead into the second half, it was a question whether that lead would be good enough in the second half. The visitors buckled down and increased the lead to sixteen points befor the hosts had the final word with an unconverted try on 73 minutes.
Lancashire began in torrential rain and completely controlled the first half with Cumbria getting little attacking ball and struggled to get into the opposition half , when thy did they lost the ball early in their sets. The visitors pack took control taking the game to Cumbria.
It came as no surprise when Lancashire’s Tom Woodward drove over and Keiron Wilkinson added the extras. It got even better six minutes later as thyey took control and Aaron Pimblett crossed for a four pointer.
The second half weather wise began as the first, with Cumbria coming more into the game but Lancashire were dogged in their determination and increased their lead on 57 minutes as Sam Burns finished off a great handling move in the corner. Wilkinsons superb touchline conversion into the wind made it 16-0.
Cumbria battled hard but were met by stern Lancashire defence but they found a gap in their defence with seven minutes as Ben Irving crossed the white wash for an unconverted try. Both defences then held firm and Lancashire went home with the points in the knowledge they were top of the table and a draw or win would see them retain their title.
Steve Manning
BARLA Media Manager
