So a first win over Wigton for quite some time was the reward for the hard working Saints. Back up staff had worked wonders to ensure this important fixture went ahead - despite some appalling downpours over West Cumbria and the field being 40% under water.

Both squads are still operating with key players absent and following a competitive first forty where the game ebbed and flowed, few honest pundits could have predicted the outcome which ensued. In essence the game was there for the taking and it was the home side who went on to dominate the scoreboard despite the on field tussles continuing to offer a reasonably balanced fare.

Saints won the day, as they just shaded the aerial ping pong battle, scraffled better on the floor and also benefited from some uncharacteristic defensive lapses from the young men in green (well, black from 40 minutes onwards as the playing surface resembled a 'somme' like scene). They also seemed to appreciate the value of creating a score when in their opponents red zone and ran their 'plays' accordingly.

Wigton dominated early doors through some effective mauling and scrum play taking a 0 - 3 lead through a Charters penalty however, it was Saints who got the first try. Following a clean line out take, some effective offloading towards midfield saw Gordon Maudling cross near the posts and Dan Rayson tagged on two points, 7 - 3. Wigton went straight back on attack and scored next as, following a scrummage penalty, Jonny Charters added three points from 35 metres - 7 - 6.

Both Rayson and Charters went on to miss relatively straightforward shots as the playing surface failed to provide anything resembling a firm foothold. HT 7 - 6…. game on perhaps?

Well not quite on…..as Saints set about getting the all important first score; in fact they got all the scores through three converted tries and one penalty. Wigton got close on several occasions but could not retain possession at key moments. The bonus point try came from the final play of the game as, following a 15 metre scrummage, Number 8 Scott Nelson broke two tackles on a 'pick and run' to the posts; again allowing Rayson a comfortable two pointer and an 11 point haul.

So, as always, plenty to reflect on and work to do for the 'Greens' as they prepare for an important brace of games. Eden at home followed by a tasty derby at Bower Park - next job, move on…...