LSH still in the play-offs mix (From St Helens Star)

Widnes 15 Liverpool St Helens 8

11:13am Thursday 19th April 2012 in Rugby Union

ALTHOUGH recent results among the three sides pursuing the one play-off slot from North One West might indicate otherwise, all those at Heath Road on Saturday bore witness to the fact that both Widnes and LSH badly want promotion.

This was a no-holds barred encounter and was absorbing to watch.

No one could deny Widnes their victory at the final whistle because they had forced LSH on to the back foot for most of the match.

LSH found it difficult to get going and relied on an industrial work rate and a strong defensive display.

LSH went ahead in the 15th minute with a penalty from skipper Simon Worsley before Widnes grabbed a try on the stroke of half time.

Three minutes into the second half LSH added a fine try from full back Neil Hull after a superb run from Ian Stanley.

Kevin Leadbetter then kicked a penalty to level the scores after 65 minutes.

One minute later the home side went seven points clear with a converted try.

Widnes’ four points for the win and LSH’s crucial bonus point put the sides level on 83 points.

As news filtered through about Broughton Park’s heroics at Northwich (now on 82pts) it dawned on everyone that there is still everything to play for in the last game of the season on Saturday when Aspatria visit Moss Lane.