Maryport coach Andrew Cartwright was full of praise for his side despite them losing a BARLA National Cup-tie at the Athletic Ground.
They lost 18-6 to Thatto Heath after they had taken the lead and were locked at 6-6 when they took their half-time break.
The Crusaders’ National Conference League side was beating Salford reserves back in St Helens when they sent a young A team to contest the National Cup game in west Cumbria.
“They were a good side and I can’t have been more impressed with our lads. They gave everything out there in terrible conditions and I was very proud of them.
“It gives us a bench-mark for the season ahead in the Cumberland ARL Premier Division when I think we have a good squad, capable of competing strongly,” said Cartwright.
The only downside was that the foul weather greatly reduced the attendance as Maryport had been expecting a decent-sized crowd.
Those who had braved the elements saw Maryport start strongly and they scored on 14 minutes when Craig Foster burst through to set-up second-row forward Connor Wilson and he barged his way over. Foster added the conversion.
Maryport had further opportunities but a couple of knock-ons – forgivable in the conditions – cost them tries.
Before the break the Crusaders went in for a try and the conversion pulled them level before the teams enjoyed a welcome break.
The second-half was a real slog, an old-fashioned mud-bath, with no quarter being asked or given. It was only deep into the final quarter when Thatto Heath managed to get in for two clinching tries which were both converted
