Kells A opened up the battle for the Holmen Iggesund Cumberland League title when they beat leaders Wath Brow A 38-18.
It was a top performance from the home side who had established a 20-8 lead by half-time and were able to increase their advantage before the end.
The Kells tries came from Harry Watson (2), Joe Johnson, Micheal Orr, James Ennis and Richard Marr with goals from man of the match Watson (6) and Tony Burns (1).
Wath Brow replied with tries from Jenson Olstrom, Jamie McAllister, Nat Dougan and Greg Rooney with a goal from Mark Watson.
Kells A coach Jonathan Wignall said: “It was a fantastic turnout for the Cameron Taylor Cup which was respectfully supported by large numbers from both sides.
“The game was attended by a number of Cameron’s family and we were very pleased to get the win for them.
“We managed to get away to a good start, scoring in the first minute before a bad injury to Tyrone Dalton in the early stages forced us into a reshuffle.
“Wath Brow were a very resilient and well-drilled, tough side and we couldn’t shake them off.
“As to be expected we were a bit clunky in attack with so many changes again but we were fortunate to have some experienced players returning from extended lay-offs which ensured that we kept control of the game in fraught moments.
“The game was generally scrappy but I was delighted that we were able to score some fantastic tries in the midst of some mayhem.
“Harry Watson and Tony Burns were our two standout players and their experience certainly shone through.
“Young Daley Stables also suffered an injury in the game and we wish both he and Tyrone all the very best.”
Paul Farrell, the Wath Brow coach said: “We were always chasing the game after the scored virtually from the kick-off and although we did score ourselves we couldn’t follow up.
“It was a very physical game, but played in a great spirit and was a fitting memorial game for Cameron Taylor. We knew Kells would be extra keen to win it for that reason.
“I know Kells lost two players but we lost three to injury, which demonstrated how tough it was.
“I couldn’t fault the effort of the lads again from one to 17 but we weren’t smart enough with the football and made two many errors, giving Kells too much field position.
“Maybe it’s a bit of a reality check but we are into the second phase of the season and it’s going to be really hard until the end of the season trying to win all the game because we want to finish top of the League. I think there’s going to be a lot of good games which can only benefit amateur rugby league.”
The only other game played was at Aspatria where the Hornets were beaten 42-0 by Lowca – but it did not spoil the reunion organised by the club to celebrate the team that won the Carlisle League 40 years ago.
Club chairman Mark Ridley said: “The reunion was a great success and we would just like to thank Lowca for staying behind for a couple of hours after the game and supporting the event.
“They were deserving winners and it was a fine performance. We had chances during the game but their defence was excellent.”
Lowca coach Lee Allen said: It was a good, hard-fought win and we scored some nice tries on the edges. Aspatria never gave up trying so I was very pleased with our defence.
“Afterwards we enjoyed their hospitality and they have a fantastic club and people. We are looking forward to Aspatria coming to us in the league on Saturday.”
Lowca scored four tries in each half with touchdowns from Jordan Allen (2), Ellis Crone (2), Emerson Allen, Mitchell Todd, Luke Stockton and Matthew Needham. Keith Campbell kicked four goals and Emerson Allen landed one.
Lowca had led 20-0 at half-time and had Jack Murray as their man of the match while Guy Reed took the award for Aspatria.
Maryport v Distington A was off and so too was Askam v Hensingham A as both the A teams did not have enough players.
