Penrith 37, Birkenhead Park 30

BIRKENHEAD Park came away with two bonus points in disappointing performance in the Lake District.

Park started brightly and after an outstanding run from Hooker Danny Atherton, Will Titherington scored a try under the posts which Dave Hall converted giving Park a seven-point lead.

Park then lost their way and missed more tackles in five minutes than they had in the previous five games.

Penrith scored four quick tries in a devastating burst to lead 24-7.

To Park's credit they could have crumbled but came back strongly themselves and after good forward pressure, winger Hem Johal scored, converted by Hall.

Park had now found some form and second row Laurence Thomas touched down just before half time to bring the score to 27-19.

Park had done well to come back after such a poor start and started the second half in confident mood.

Dave Hall kicked a penalty to bring the scores to 27-22.

The crowd were certainly being entertained as the match went from end to end.

Penrith extended their lead with their left winger scoring a well worked try in the corner.

The Merseysiders responded immediately with young Prop Martin Donnelly crashing over bringing the score to 32-27 and crucially scoring Park's fourth try of the afternoon securing a league bonus point.

The game was now firmly in the balance, but it was Penrith who took their chances and scored a well worked try in the corner extending their lead to 37-27.

Park were now desperate to close the gap and with time running out were rewarded with a penalty in the last minute.

Dave Hall converted bringing Park crucially within seven points of Penrith, enabling them to secure a losing bonus point for being within seven points.

Final score 37-30. 

Park coach Billy Woof said: "I was disappointed in our tackling today which was uncharacteristically poor but I'm delighted that we recovered to make a game of it.

"On reflection to go home with two bonus points could be crucial for us in the long run".

Park have a week off next week before entertaining Broughton Park at the Upper Park on November 9 (2.15pm Kick off).

Peter Greville