Kendal 8, Wirral 3

THIS game was marred with an injury to the influential Wirral fly-half James Annetts in the 10th minute of the game at the stage where both teams were testing each other's defences.

For the first quarter of the game Wirral had to defend in their half of the pitch but gradually worked their way into the game and made a number of breaks but could not capitalise on these opportunities, whilst at the other end Kendal had a try disallowed for a forward pass.

It was not until the 38th minute that the first score came when the veteran home side full back, Chris Park kicked a penalty from 25m wide out to give his side a 3-0 lead at half-time.

In the second half the defences were again on top and the only try of the game came when Kendal were pressing the Wirral line when sharp passing down the line enabled winger, Myles Harrow to cross unopposed in the corner to give Kendal a 8-0 lead.

Wirral then played their best rugby and were rewarded with a penalty from Dan Harvey to reduce the arrears.

With the Wirral pack now in control and pushing the home side pack on a number of occasions the art of which was not appreciated by the referee who penalised Wirral at a crucial time when close to the Kendal line.

Much as Wirral tried to rescue the game it was their handling that let them down as Kendal played for time with relieving kicks down field.

The final whistle came as Wirral were again stationed in the Kendal 20m area.