Cockermouth Titans went out of the BARLA National Cup at the first stage when they went down 64-6 at home to an experienced Waterhead side.
The visitors play in Division Three of the National Conference and they used that extra know-how to good effect against the Cumberland ARL side.
The Titans knew going into the game it would be a big ask for the players they had available and the fact that the visitors got the run of the ball in the opening exchanges didn’t help.
With some ex-professionals in the line-up, and dictating the play, Waterhead quickly established a handy lead and maintained their momentum throughout the first half.
The second half was more of the same although the Titans did get close to the opposition line on more than one occasion and were unfortunate not to get over.
They had to wait until the very last play of the game when skipper Regan Tinnion bagged a consolation try which was converted by Jack Clark.
Assistant coach Dave Whitworth said: “Credit to all our players who stepped up. They have experienced what it’s like to face a quality, fast outfit and we will look to implement improvements taken from the game into training and a pre-season friendly in February.
“We would like to thank the Waterhead players, staff and supporters for their respect showed on and off the field, and for further supporting the day and night in the bar.
“This showcased how the BARLA National Cup competition can be. It’s not just rugby, it brings people together from different clubs and communities.”
Cockermouth play in the CARL Premier Division this coming season which is due to start on March 5. They have entered an A team for the first time, to play in the First Division.
