Haydock 27 Widnes St Maries 18 HAYDOCK fought back from a 14-4 half-time deficit to claim the spoils in a tough encounter.

They led 4-nil after 15 minutes thanks to two Ireland penalty goals.

Defences were on top at this stage, with Lowe, Bloor and Abbott getting through a lot of work.

But as the half wore on the Widnes side got more in the game. And with 25 minutes gone a wayward pass went to a St Maries player who raced in from 75 yards for a converted try.

Haydock scrum-half Boland made a 30-yard break, but lacked support, while Abbott made good ground from acting half-back.

Substitute Pearson also caused problems for the visitors, but St Maries struck back with a try and penalty goal.

There were strong words from the Haydock coaching staff at the break - and it had the desired effect.

Haydock went straight into the attack, producing some fine, open rugby. And from one such move Speed fed the final pass to Lowe, who went in at the corner.

Ireland converted to put Haydock back in it at 14-10.

And the Yickers quickly regained possession and good passing created the opening for Ireland to send Tither in at the corner.

Haydock were now well on top and the strong-running Pearson barged his way over. Ireland's conversion made it 20-14.

But back came Maries with an unconverted try.

With eight minutes left Pearson crashed over for his second try, converted by Ireland.

A Newton drop goal finally sealed the issue for Haydock.

Best for Haydock were Lowe, Pearson, Bloor and Abbott.

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