An outstanding performance from Barrow Raiders saw them back to winning ways with a 24-10 victory at Swinton Lions.
Two successive defeats had caused concerns as they sat next to bottom of the Betfred Championship, but a superb first-half performance laid the base for the victory.
At half-time the Raiders led 20-0 and although Swinton made inroads in the second half Paul Crarey’s men dug in well and were full value for their win.
A penalty from Ryan Johnston on seven minutes nosed them ahead and the first try soon followed.
After nine minutes Jacob Douglas did really well out on the left to create an opportunity for Matt Costello to burrow under the defenders for the opening try which Johnston converted.
The Raiders continued to enjoy plenty of possession without being able to add to their lead until the 33rd minute.
After clever play from Brad Walker it was Johnston who produced a disguised pass behind his back for James Greenwood to cross. Johnston converted.
There was still more to come in a dominated half from the Raiders as Harvey Makin powered over from five metres and Johnston’s conversion gave them a healthy 20-0 lead.
Two minutes into the second-half Swinton responded to what must have been a half-time blast in the dressing room for they scored within two minutes. Jayden Hatton went in for an unconverted try.
When Barrow finally got some field position they were awarded a penalty on 57 minutes and Johnston put it over.
Another penalty for a high shot on 66 minutes was successfully kicked by Johnston and at at 24-4 the finish line was in sight.
The Lions did score in the 79th minute through Mitch Cox, and Dan Abram converted, but it was too little and too late to affect the result.
