IN conditions which hardy favoured open rugby, and with several players not available, West Park took a deserved point from this opening league fixture in North One West, losing 15-12 at home to Warrington.

Each side scored two tries, but eventually a penalty converted by the visitors with only 10 minutes of the game remaining proved the decisive score.

It was nearly so different however as with the last play of the game, and after a 30 metre run, Park’s winger Tom Dempsey was bundled into touch within inches of the try line.

Warrington proved doughty opponents, but the home side matched them well, particularly in the first half where

possession was at a premium, their defence proving particularly resolute.

An injury to second row Ant Jones within minutes of the start was obviously disruptive to Park’s plans, but Tom Williams from the bench and later Joe Bailey and Josh Ainsworth proved more than able substitutes.

The visitors scored first, their forwards driving over from close range after recycling the ball following a break by their winger, the try being converted by scrum half Hockenhull.

There were no further scores in the first half, but within minutes of the restart Park’s forwards combined effectively to drive over the line, flanker and man of the match Martin Kimberley getting the touchdown.

Lee Rosney converted to level the match, but after a period in the ascendency, a momentary lack of concentration allowed the visitors to switch the ball across the backs for their winger Lewis to cross wide out for a try which was not converted.

West Park were not fazed at going behind and continued to press at every opportunity, and an intelligent and quick tap by Danny Green after being awarded a penalty, saw Rosney link up and feed winger Dempsey who scored in the corner, although the try was not able to be converted.

Both sides seemed well matched, but as fatigue set in, a penalty awarded to the visitors in front of the posts, proved decisive.

Park can take heart and confidence from their performance, and a similar effort and belief will be necessary when they travel to play Birkenhead Park, kick off 3pm