CROSFIELDS and Woolston Rovers had contrasting fortunes as their National Conference League Division Two campaigns got underway on Saturday.

Soap were 28-18 victors over Barrow Island at Hood Lane as they survived a fightback from the visitors to eventually secure the win.

A strong first-half display saw them go into half time 18-4 ahead, with Joe Barnes scoring twice after Jack Fox had opened the scoring. Jack Lewis converted all three tries.

However, the Cumbrians stormed back after the break, with Jon Walsh and Sam Jones scoring tries converted by Max Moore, who then kicked a penalty to level matters.

The hosts dug deep, though and Barnes beat three players to finish off Jamie Abram’s break and complete his hat-trick to put Matt Wilson’s men into the lead again.

After a tense final 10 minutes, the game’s final play saw Luke Walker cross to ensure the celebrations could begin.

“It was a bit scratchy at times and the wind was a huge factor for both sides,” Wilson said.

“We defended very well all game in fairness and I think the best thing was we stuck in there together – so many new players found a togetherness and a way to win the game.”

Woolston put in a brave second-half fightback against Clock Face Miners at Monk Sports Club, but could not stop the St Helens outfit leaving with a 24-20 victory.

Mal Holt’s side battled back from a 14-0 half-time deficit, with Paul Alcock, Harry Files, Wil Maudsley and Ben Dixon crossing after the break. Dixon and Chris Forster also added a goal each

However, the deficit proved too much to retrieve as tries from Jimmy Jones, Alex Burke, Brandon Lewis, Luke Forber and Michael Carney secured victory for Clock.

Rovers are at home again on Saturday as they host Wigan St Judes while Crosfields are on the road at Dewsbury Moor Maroons. Both games kick off at 2.30pm.