Rochdale 19 Warrington 46

WARRINGTON go into their last game of the season on the back of eventually overwhelming relegated Rochdale at the weekend.

Andy Roberts' side scored eight tries as they maintained eighth spot in North One West but it took them 50 minutes before they managed to take a commanding lead.

The Rochdale defence was rock-like as they held the visitors to 17-14 at the interval, but the relentless tackling forced upon them finally took its toll and the closing 30 minutes saw Warrington playing some of their best rugby of the season against tiring opposition.

“This was a fits-and-starts game for us,” said player-coach Roberts, who notched the eighth try – his first of the season.

“We could have scored four more tries in the first half but all credit to Rochdale who were resolute in defence for long periods.

"However, when we clicked we played some excellent rugby and the final try was a peach.”

Speedy winger Nathan Beesley notched a hat-trick, with his first try coming from the first attack after influential Tom Arnold was halted five metres out.

His electric pace extended Warrington's lead to 10-0.

Some admirable off-loading brought Rochdale a try, which was converted, but Warrington’s response was almost immediate when Kieron Hughes danced over with Ben Hockenhull converting.

Over-elaboration from Warrington in their own half saw Rochdale’s robust centre intercept and cross unopposed to close the first half.

Sterling Rochdale defence saw them protect their try line for a brutal 10 minute opening to the second period.

Eventually, the resistance cracked and Steve Pilkington forced his way over and Hockenhull converted.

From the restart a brilliant break from Hockenhull was finished off by Arnold.

Rochdale were not finished and excellent off-loading brought them their final try.

Sean Hughes snaffled a Rochdale overthrow at a line-out and handed on to Arnold who made 30 metres before feeding Kieron Hughes to cross. Hockenhull converted.

Arnold handed onto Beesley after a scintillating midfield break for the winger's hat-trick try.

The scoring was completed when Roberts gave a snappy pass to Arnold and then got in position to take the final pass and flop over the line.

Douglas are this Saturday's visitors to Walton Lea Road, kick-off 1.30pm.

The second-team game against Kirby Lonsdale will follow at 3.15pm and there will then be a cross-code game between Crosfields Masters and Warrington Masters.

The afternoon and evening at Warrington Sports Club will also feature live music, a bouncy castle and various sideshows.