Rugby Union: Morley 25, West Park 15

Sep 24 2007 by Ron Roby, Liverpool Daily Post

THE Merseysiders had their hopes of continuing their winning run in National Three North blighted by injuries and they were penalised severely throughout the game.

Despite competing well in the early exchanges, an injury to lock forward Dave Westhead disrupted the pattern of play before the home side put the first score on the board with a converted try.

Park tried to bounce back but Andy Soutar was off target with two penalty attempts before winger Kalan Warburton touched down, only to be denied by the linesman for putting a foot in touch.

Lightning then struck twice as centre Ian Callaghan, who has shown great strength this season, was injured.

With the interval approaching Park went further behind conceding another converted try to trail 14-0

After the break a sustained period of pressure by Park was rewarded with a Soutar penalty but it was quickly cancelled out with one from Morley.

Some strong runs from prop Liam McLoughlin, Rob Hitchmough and debutant Dave Cunliffe provided hope before scrum half Darren Wilson touched down.

The Yorkshire side seemed likely to have the upper hand grabbing another try from a five metre scrum to add to another penalty. Another try from the visitors was not enough.