Thirteen wasn’t unlucky for Workington Town as after 12 blanks they finally registered a Betfred Championship win – and a crucial one over London Broncos .
It wasn’t really a surprise, though, as recent form has suggested that their first victory was coming. They have played well in defeats, running most of the opposition close.
They led 18-6 at half-time and were able to maintain their advantage in the second half to eventually beat the Broncos 32-18 at Derwent Park.
It was a vital win, too, as it means Town are just a point behind the Broncos at the foot of the table. The two points will further increase belief that the west Cumbrians can fight their way above Broncos and Dewsbury over the second half of the season.
Both teams have tough follow-up games on Sunday with Town travelling to Batley and London going to York. Dewsbury entertain Whitehaven who still need a couple of wins to feel they should be safe.
Town had gone in front on 10 minutes when Hull KR loanee Tom Wilkinson charged over and Carl Forber landed the first of his five conversions.
But the Broncos were level four minutes later when they got in on the outside with Rhys Curran touching down out wide. Dean Parata landed the conversion.
The importance of the game showed up in the number of unforced errors but Town always looked the side more capable to carve-out and complete their chances.
They regained the lead after 19 minutes when Evan Simons scooted over from close range and Caine Barnes, who always looked dangerous near the line, barged over on 27 minutes.
The start of the second half was delayed while an ambulance arrived to take away Broncos Will Lovell who had suffered a serious neck injury at the end of the first half.
With an 18-6 advantage it was always going to be important for Town to score first and on 47 minutes they got over as Marcus O’Brien made a break from 40 metres to get over.
That gave Town some breathing space but on 56 minutes Parata cut the gap with a try and this time Oliver Leyland converted.
It was hard-fought but ten minutes from the end Town looked to have made it safe when Simons, named man of the match got in for his second try.
There was a late scare, though when Paul Ulberg scored London’s third try and Leyland added the conversion.
The final score of the game was a penalty to Town which gave Forber his sixth successful kick.
