Birkenhead Park 29, Vale of Lune 26

BIRKENHEAD Park were given a fright by Vale of Lune but maintained their unbeaten record in a lively encounter at the Upper Park.

Dave Hall kicked an early penalty for Park and second row Josh Smith claimed the first try of the afternoon after 17 minutes with Hall's conversion putting Park 10-0 up.

Vale hit back as winger Jordan Fern raced clear and Ramwell converted to narrow the deficit to three points.

Good play in midfield put Matt Walls into space up the wing and Park skipper Jack Ashcroft was on hand to finish the move for a great try with Hall again converting.

Vale started the second half strongly and good support play saw substitute Ben Dorrington touch down to keep Vale in the hunt.

Park picked the pace up as the forwards took charge and substitute Martin O'Keefe scored after a powerful forward drive.

Laurence Thomas, playing at number eight, broke clear from a maul and claimed the bonus-point try, with Hall's conversion giving Park a comfortable 29-12 advantage going into the closing stages.

Vale then produced their best play and two late tries by scrum half Billy Swarbrick and flanker Andy Powers, both converted by Turton, ensured a nervy finish for Park.