Warrington 28 Rochdale 23

PLAYER/COACH Andy Roberts says lady luck was smiling on Warrington during their bonus-point win over Rochdale on Saturday.

The hosts outscored their visitors by five tries to three at Walton Lea Road, but it could have been different had a late Rochdale try been allowed to stand.

“I think we used up a good deal of our season’s luck today,” Roberts said.

“Rochdale are a good side but we did well to score five tries and earn the bonus point.

“Let’s hope the luck stays with us, as we face two testing home games before we break for Christmas.”

The visitors started the brighter and two Ollie Coldman penalties gave them a 6-0 lead early on.

They stretched that lead when a good passing move saw Rob Willetts crashing over, with Coldman’s conversion giving Warrington a 13-point deficit to reel in.

Roberts’ side set about their task and a driving maul led to Josh Riley touching down in the corner to get them on the board.

Warrington now had their tails up and Nathan Beesley twice showcased his finishing skills to give them a narrow 15-13 lead at the interval.

However, Rochdale were the first to break through in the second period when Anthony Burleigh crossed for a converted try.

The hosts responded again when good recycling of the ball led to Tom Wood slipping a short pass for Elliot Johnstone to crash over, with the missed conversion bringing the game level.

Ben Hockenhull and Rochdale counterpart Coldman traded penalties before Warrington went through the phases and shifted the ball for Max Caldwell to score the winning try in the corner.

Warrington are at home again on Saturday as they welcome Burnage to Walton Lea Road, kick off 2.15pm.