NORTH DIVISION 1 - 10th November 2007

BIRKENHEAD PARK 12

CLECKHEATON 6

Cleckheaton made life extremely difficult for Birkenhead Park but the home side showed considerable resolve to claim a seventh successive North 1 victory. Park had first use of the strong wind but failed to take a number of opportunities and were only 12-0 up at the break.

Dave Hall missed an easy penalty for Park after 7 minutes but they were soon ahead when winger Andy Trotter crossed on the blind side. Hall made amends for his earlier miss with an excellent conversion from the touchline. The Park line out was dominant with Paul Hellier frequently stealing the Clekheaton throw but the visiting defence proved hard to break down. Flanker Ashley Olliver gained a crucial second try for Park on the half hour but despite more pressure they could not add to their total.

A 12-0 advantage at half time did not look enough as Park turned round to play into the gale and Cleckheaton soon opened their account with a penalty by Owen Edwards. The Birkenhead defence was admirable and at times desperate as Cleckheaton went in search of a further score. The lively Cleckheaton backs twice went close but their only further score was a second Edwards penalty. Park finished the game on the attack as they held out for victory and prop Phil Reynolds was named man of the match.

This Saturday Park travel to Northwich in the 2nd round of the Intermediate Cup, 2pm kick off.