A very young Widnes side gave a good account of themselves but could not breach a resolute home defence. Ormskirk, who finished top of the table last season but declined promotion, proved too strong in the forwards for an enthusiastic Widnes side.

Widnes started brightly with Graham Riley and Chris Rigby making probing runs. The home defence stood firm and countered, but it was 15 minutes before they converted a penalty. The Ormskirk fumbled the re-start into touch. Riley took a trademark quick throw to Nicky Preston, who was winding up for a 40 metre sprint to the line when the referee called him back for a Widnes scrum, deciding Ormskirk’s first offence was a knock-on.

The home pack now began to dominate the scrums, resulting in an unconverted try. Widnes bounced back and a penalty for off side was coolly converted by Liam Quinn. Ormskirk scored a converted try to take a 15-3 lead into half time.

Ormskirk continued their forward domination, matched by resolute Widnes defence. A promising move by the home side was halted by an obstruction when captain J P Favour was illegally prevented from tackling the centre. Ainsley Wright had to leave the field and, without a recognised hooker, the Widnes scrum was put under even more pressure. Eventually Ormskirk scored a push-over try, but that was the only score of an even second half.

The youngsters of Widnes, some of whom had not played rugby union before, should all be proud of their effort and enthusiasm. Next week they host Liverpool Collegiate.

See photos section for pictures from the game.