WALNEY Terriers produced an inspired second-half performance to see off Carlisle Sentinels 37-7 and earn bragging rights for American Football in Cumbria.

Still smarting from two defeats to Carlisle a couple of years ago, the Terriers were champing at the bit to take revenge.

The first half saw precious little action at either end of the field, with both defences smothering the opposition’s attacking play.

Soon after the resumption, a missed tackle from a Terriers player meant the field opened up and Sentinels took advantage, completing an 80-yard touchdown.

Straight from the kick-off, Walney thought they had bounced back immediately, only for the score to be ruled out for interference.

The intent shown would be rewarded though, as full-back Kyle Murphy crossed into the endzone soon after to leave the score at 7-6 after a missed conversion attempt. Terriers kicker Jamie Falcon added three points to put them into the lead for the first time.

The pressure took its toll again, as the Sentinels quarterback tossed the ball into the waiting hands of defender Lyam Denny, who travelled unopposed all the way to the endzone.

With their attacking play finally finding some fluidity, Joe Allington found receiver Callum Coldwell to give the Terriers their first passing touchdown of the game. A trick pass pitch to lineman Sam Coulson and a destructive run from Curtis Shields added to the scoreline, as Terriers’ superior fitness and tactical adaptability shone through.

Terriers’ final game of the season on August 6, sees them host Northumberland Lightning at Glaxo.