Warrington’s first half performance was just enough to give them a well-deserved victory against a doughty Oswestry outfit. Even so, a strong defence in the second half, led by Ritchie McNair’s Jonnie Wilkinson tackling impersonation, ensured that the creative attacking spirit of the first period was reinforced to provide an excellent home win.

Warrington went into an early lead by virtue of two Newens’ penalties. The improved link-up between scum-half Hennessy and stand-off McNair promised much and this soon materialised when a pin-point pass from Hennessy saw McNair put in a superb kick to the corner. Warrington were awarded a penalty and veteran Wheatley made an opportunistic break and linked up with Sean Hughes, who cut through the defence to set up a ruck from which skipper Thompson drove over. 

At this stage, Warrington were totally on top and this superiority was demonstrated when Zac Lythgoe took a ball in the line out, then made ground before releasing to the backs who showed good hands before Almond entered the move at full back and drew the defence to allow veteran Jones an easy finish. Oswestry replied with a penalty to make the half time score 16-3

Although the second half lacked the creativity of the first period, it did showcase Warrington’s defensive talents. With Ritchie McNair at the fore with a number of impactive tackles, the home side held out against a continuous Oswestry onslaught.

McNair further increased Warrington’s lead with a signature Wilkinson drop goal and top try scorer Kevin Jones seemed to have sealed the victory when he intercepted and forced his aging legs to run 60 yards, only to have his try disallowed for an earlier offside. Oswestry had the final say when they scored in the closing minutes against a Warrington side which had been reduced to thirteen men because of two controversial refereeing decisions but Warrington had done enough to ensure a well-deserved win.

Coach Dave Rockey commented., “We are now showing how we can play in both attack and defence. Our back line is starting to gel and our forwards are proving that they can provide good ball and also compete at the break-downs.