Keswick 5, Birkenhead Park 36

BIRKENHEAD Park moved into second place in the North1 West table with a comfortable victory at league newcomers Keswick.

The home side started well but were unable to threaten the Park line before prop Danny Atherton finished off a lively move to score under the posts.

Dave Hall converted to give Park a 7-0 lead. Sam Tyler was unlucky to have what appeared to be a good score disallowed but after more pressure Hall increased the visitor's lead with a penalty in front of the posts.

Park continued to dominate and following another good handling move between forwards and backs lock Jack Ashcroft went over from close range with Hall again converting.

Park increased the lead and secured the bonus point with a fourth try early in the second half when centre Ollie Jacques crossed following quick scrum ball.

Park were not at their best making too many errors and struggling at times with the referee's interpretations.

Keswick winger Ryan Weir took advantage of Park mistakes for the only home score of the afternoon on 50 minutes.

Thereafter, Park resumed control and substitute prop Liam Shaples forced his way over for the next try.

Finally, Jacques intercepted and then raced away from his own half for the last try with Hall converting both.

For Park Martin Donnelly was outstanding in the forwards with Nick Lamming also enjoying a fine game in the back row.

This Saturday Park welcome Cheshire rivals Stockport to the Upper Park (3pm kick off).