Whitehaven 22-14 Workington: Haven win Cumbrian derby

Whitehaven claimed the bragging rights in Cumbria as they beat rivals Workington 22-14 in a Championship clash live on Premier Sports.

Whitehaven got off to the perfect start with debutant Davy Litten, on loan from Hull, scoring inside three minutes. Nikau Williams’ conversion hit the post and bounced out.

But Workington hit back five minutes later through winger Alex Clegg who levelled the score.

Chris Thorman’s Town team took the lead in the 25th minute when hooker Evans Simons scooted from dummy half to dart 40 metres and score. Former Wigan half-back Jamie Doran added the extras.

But the score was tied again on the half hour mark when former St Helens youngster Dave Eccleston went over for Haven, with Tom Holliday converting.

Workington scored through Will Tate, on loan from Hull KR, in the 36th minute, but it was quickly cancelled out by Whitehaven’s Will Evans. The score was tied at 14-all at half-time.

HT: Whitehaven 14-14 Workington Town

The wet weather conditions took their toll in the second half and it was a pulsating ending to the game. Whitehaven edged in front on the hour thanks to a penalty goal from man of the match Williams.

And with six minutes left on the clock, Italy World Cup hopeful Ryan King caught the Haven defence off guard with a cheeky scoot from close range. Williams’ conversion sealed an emphatic 22-14 win for the home side.

The win sees Jonty Gorley’s Whitehaven move four points clear of 12th-placed Dewsbury. Workington, meanwhile, remain rock bottom of the Championship table after losing eight from eight this season.

Whitehaven: Litten; Eccleston, Walker, Evans, Bulman; Dixon, Williams; Walker, Hookem, Graham; King, Holliday, Wilkinson. Subs: Phillips, Aiye, Bradley, Hudson.

Tries: Litten, Eccleston, Evans, King Goals: Holliday 1, Williams 2

Workington: Thomas; Young, Brown, Tate, Clegg; Doran, Walker; Fitzsimmons, Simons, Thomson, Steele, Barnes, O’Brien. Subs: Henson, Clarke, Brewin, Weetman.

Tries: Clegg, Simons, Tate Goals: Doran 1

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