BIRKENHEAD PARK just lost out at Cleckheaton in their latest National Three North encounter 13-10.
British Lion legend John Bentley made a surprise appearance for the home side who just about deserved the spoils after a promising first-half performance by Park petered out in a disappointing second half.
Gary Lunt scored the only Park try after good work by Tony Handley but Birkenhead did not win enough ball in the second period and a penalty five minutes from time settled the issue in favour of the home side.
However, Park did not return empty handed after claiming a bonus point due to the closeness of the result.
There was better news for the Park Wanderers who after a difficult start, have recorded two successive wins in the Bateman BMW Premiership.
They demolished struggling Manchester 98-12 on Saturday after a fine 17-5 win at Kendal the previous week.
The young Park side is starting to take shape and will be greatly heartened by these victories.
On Sunday the Park Panthers ladies team were delighted to record their first win at only their second attempt defeating visitor's Northwich 41-5.
Prop Suzie Goligher was particularly impressive up front while Ashleigh Neale showed great promise in the centre. The Panthers had to withstand early Northwich pressure but they responded superbly and superior fitness saw Park take control.
