Former Barrow Island forward Morgan Knowles was unable to help St Helens to a third World Club Challenge title as they were defeated 20-12 by NRL champions Sydney Roosters last Saturday night.

Saints were given the perfect start at the Totally Wicked Stadium when Luke Thompson went over from close range, but the Aussies led 8-6 at half-time thanks to unconverted tries from Daniel Tupou and Joseph Manu.

The hosts tried to hit back but were frustrated when a Tommy Makinson ‘try’ was chalked off for a forward pass, with the winger then being judged just short by the video referee in diving for the corner.

Manu then added his second before Luke Keary ran in from long range to make the game safe for the Roosters, who claimed a record fifth title despite a late consolation from Saints’ Alex Walmsley.

Former Barrow Raider Joe Bullock was an interchange as Wigan Warriors’ promising start to the Super League season continued with a 26-12 win over Hull FC.

Wigan’s tries came from Bevan French, Dom Manfredi, Jackson Hastings and Willie Isa, while Zak Hardaker kicked five goals in the hosts’ third win in four games.

Askam product Jaques O’Neill played off the bench as Castleford Tigers scored 18 answered points in the second half to defeat Wakefield Trinity 32-15 at The Jungle.

Derrell Olpherts and James Clare both scored two tries for the Tigers, who have now won their last 14 matches against their local rivals.

Toronto Wolfpack remain without a win in their first-ever season in the top flight after they lost 32-22 at Warrington Wolves, where Island old boy Brad Singleton was a starter.

Haverthwaite’s Will Maher started for Hull Kington Rovers at home to Huddersfield Giants, but they slid to a third defeat in four games as the visitors ran out comfortable 22-4 winners.

In the Coral Challenge Cup, Barrovian Ryan Shaw made his return to rugby league as he made his debut for Leigh Centurions in their 36-10 win over Batley Bulldogs.

Ex-Raider Deon Cross was a try scorer in Widnes’ 52-12 thrashing of Oldham, for whom former teammate Lewis Charnock started, while Andrew Dawson and Blain Marwood both struck for Workington Town in their impressive 22-12 win over Doncaster.