HEAD coach Paul Crarey reflected on the performance as Barrow Raiders recorded a victory over neighbours Workington Town in the first pre-season friendly of the 2022 campaign.

Over 1,200 hardy souls witnessed a tight battle in wintry conditions which ended 24-12 in favour of the home side.

Ryan Shaw, Hakim Miloudi and debutants Danny Langtree and Ellis Gillam all crossed for the hosts, with Shaw adding a further eight points with the boot.

"We had some great opportunities and probably bombed a few but both sides tried to play rugby in what was extreme conditions in the first half and then the wind and rain eased up in the second," Crarey said.

"It was always going to be difficult for both teams to play but I think they did a good job of it.

"I think both coaches will be disappointed with a few of the tries conceded but it was a good hit out for both sides.

"It was a great crowd, and it was good Workington fans came down, our guys were really vocal as well.”

Crarey went on to highlight they had many players out either injured or through Covid which meant he was just glad they could get the game on and play in front of the fans.

Covid is something the staff at Raiders believe is going to play a huge part of the season and that extra players are going to be needed to edge out games.

"I thought our two back rowers were outstanding in the lines and in their work ethic getting behind the ball in early play," he continued.

"It is the little things we are doing well which we are seeing in this game.

"I think we needed a little structure going out.

"We are looking to get Sammut in next week as Jake Carter just spoke to him and we are looking to get him back as well.

"Stacky, Mossy, and Woodsy as well. Josh has been outstanding in training, I have never seen anyone so physical in training and he can ping a ball out left and right really composed. He is massive for us, and we didn't want to play him today in case of a knock or a pull.

"We spoke about leaving him out and I don't think he was happy about that, but we are hoping to get him in next week.

"I felt we had a desire to defend our goal line in the first half especially when we were up against a mountain of possession. We did not do ourselves any favours not playing the ball correctly.

"You have to sacrifice things to win and if we are going to win in the Championship, we have to sacrifice ourselves.

"If you want to win you have got to be disciplined."