Warrington 17 Burnage 10

WARRINGTON’S sterling defence restricted Burnage to a single try and gained them revenge for a narrow defeat earlier in the season.

Even so, Saturday’s North One West encounter was another nail-biter, with the result in the balance until the final whistle.

The Walton Lea Road men were never behind, and held leads of 10-0 and 17-7 thanks to their committed work in keeping the Stockport side at bay.

“We were aware that we have the second worst defensive record in the league, so we have worked on improving our tackling during training,” said coach Andy Roberts.

“It paid dividends at the weekend and I am proud at the way that all the lads have responded.

“Hopefully, we can continue our defensive strategy on Saturday when we welcome Northwich in what should be a close-fought derby.”

Warrington’s defensive mettle was severely tested during the opening 10 minutes.

Sean Yoxall and Nick Pennington led the resistance and then the hosts scored in only their second visit to Burnage territory.

Tom Arnold drew the defence for Max Caldwell to finish off in style, with Ben Hockenhull converting from near the touchline and adding a penalty soon after.

Burnage missed a penalty kick but engineered a good converted try before the interval.

Warrington were unlucky not to increase their lead when an ambitious 40-yard penalty attempt from Hockenhull hit the upright.

Caldwell sparked Warrington’s second try when he was stopped 20 yards out after a signature mazy run.

Nick Pennington spotted a hint of a gap, broke through and sidestepped the full back to touch down. Hockenhull converted.

Burnage closed the gap to seven points with a penalty but Warrington’s defence again stepped up to the plate to see the game out.