Wirral RUFC recover to take derby over Widnes

Feb 27 2013 by Our Correspondent, Birkenhead News

WIRRAL fought back from a 10-22 deficit at half-time to clinch a bonus point win over Widnes.

With both teams looking to play open rugby from the start it was Wirral who took an early lead with a Craig Harvey try and conversion by brother, Danny.

This was followed by a penalty from Craig to give the home side a 10-0 lead.

Widnes hit back with three tries before half time through Matty Smith, Harry Varley and Chris Atkins with Matty Smith converting two along with a penalty to secure a 10-22 half time lead.

In the second half, the Wirral forwards came into the game and gave the team a greater share of territory and possession.

Swift passing to left winger Ali Baker saw him avoid would-be tacklers and move up to the Widnes line; a perfectly timed pass and an ever alert Joe Murray scampered over for a try which was converted by Craig to leave the game tied at 22-all.

20 minutes into the second half, Wirral took the lead with a try from short range by prop Matt Brown; Craig Harvey converted, and along with two long range penalties sealed the victory for Wirral.

In the final minutes, Widnes made a valiant effort to secure a try bonus point but the stubborn Wirral defence held out.

The win still leaves Wirral in sixth place, one point behind Widnes but with a game in hand.