Carlisle 20-6 Wirral

Oct 24 2012 by Our Correspondent, Birkenhead News

WITH many changes to their side, Wirral almost achieved victory at third placed Carlisle conceding 10 points when they were reduced to 14 men for 10 minutes.

The opening exchanges were punctuated by dropped passes and infringements by both sides and after 39 minutes of play, Wirral led 6-3 through two Craig Harvey penalties.

On the stroke of half time, good interplay by the Wirral backs saw full back, Dan Harvey dummy and side step his way over for a well taken try to give Wirral a 13-3 lead at the interval.

In the second half, Wirral managed to contain Carlisle who had a greater share of territory and possession until the 59th minute, when they had a wing forward sin binned.

In the period of his absence Carlisle scored 10 points through a try by Paul Lancaster and a penalty and conversion from Glen Weightman to level the scores at 13-13.

The impetus was now with Carlisle and a good back movement saw centre Lee Askew cross for the winning try with eight minutes to go. Wirral tried to get an equalising try but could not break through the stubborn Carlisle defence, which is the best in the league and had to settle for a losing bonus point.

RICHARD MCNEIL