LIVERPOOL ST HELENS slipped further behind North One West leaders Sandbach after coming off second best in a scrappy, ill disciplined affair.

Conceding a greater number of penalties, LSH’s cause was not helped by some crucial decisions going against them.

Sandbach opened the scoring with a penalty followed by a try from Kane. Midway through the half Simon Verbickas crashed over to make it 15-0.

LSH hit back immediately with a catch and drive of their own finished off by number eight Phil Kearns.

Another home side penalty was followed by a try from Dave Cunliffe after an outstanding break from Ally Sutherland, converted by Matty Cunliffe.

The restart was followed by a sustained 30 man brawl ending with two players from each side sent to the bin, followed by another Sandbach penalty to close the first half at 21-12.

The game continued to simmer throughout the second half in which LSH were denied an early try when the referee ruled the ball had been held up. Sandbach winger Peel and a second try from Kane extended their lead before Alex McClurg darted over for LSH’s third followed by another melee after which Dave Cunliffe was red carded.

Verbickas scored again on the final whistle.