Warrington overcome Birkenhead in a war of attrition.

Warrington overcame a strong and highly motivated Birkenhead Park team on Sunday, as they kept their league campaign on track with 20 points to 10 victory.

Given the weather conditions in the run up to the game it was a tribute to Warrington ground staff that any rugby was possible. As it turned our near perfect conditions met both teams and a free flowing and open game was expected.

Unfortunately what transpired was a stilted and rather tedious affair with long stoppages for injuries making it virtually impossible for either team to create any momentum.

Warrington were able to field their new back line for the first time and it was debutant Thompson who created the first opportunity with a scything run through midfield. Held up near the line, the home team were able to recycle quickly and Arnold was able to dive over for his second of the season. The conversion was missed 5 0 to Warrington.

As the breaks in play frustrated both players and spectators alike, neither team were able to put any authority on their performances. It was Park who troubled the scorer next however with a well struck penalty. This spurred Warrington into action and good hands from the backs saw Wilson dive over for his debut try as winger. No extras were added 10 3 to Warrington

The match continued to be punctuated with stoppages and as a very long first half drew to a conclusion, Brazendale finished off a good first half for the back division by powering over for a try. Again, no conversion was possible and the half ended 15 3 to Warrington.

The second half started better for both teams and Park certainly had their share of territory and possession. It was Warrington who scored again however when number 8 Killeavy number was able to finish of a well crafted move. The kicking boots were back in the changing room however and the score moved to 20 points to 3.

All credit to Park as despite a growing list of injuries they never gave up and continued to stretch the home teams defence. The pressure finally told when a after a number of infringements in the “red zone” the referee awarded the visitors a penalty try which was duly converted. 20 points to 10 to Warrington.

Once again the game was unable to provide any meaningful entertainment as further stoppages cancelled out any continuity or flow.

The game finished with the home team winning by 20 points to 10. All credit to Park who never allowed their spirit to break or work rate to drop.

Warrington will have learned much from this game and need to bring a maturity to match their talent. Sometimes you need to win ugly………..this was just such an occasion.