BLACKBURN aren't back to winning ways but it was a much improved performance against table-toppers Tarleton.

A late breakaway try flattered the visitors who were pushed all the way against a rejuvenated Blackburn in a bruising Ramsgreave encounter.

The game began at breakneck speed and, after an early exchange of penalties, the home side slowly became the more dominant force - with the half-back pairing of Richard Bradford and Micky Cottam orchestrating most of Blackburn's good back-line moves.

Blackburn finally crafted a breakthrough with the rejuvenated Mike Williams leading by example. After a series of quick rucks, flanker John Bank burrowed under two defenders to score a well deserved try.

But just when the home side looked to have taken control, shoddy tackling and lack of concentration allowed the visitors two easy tries and the half ended 11-18.

In the second half scoring chances were at a premium - which was a credit to both defences - and Blackburn added two penalties to close the gap.

Tarleton then maded sure of victory with a interception try on the final whistle.

Captain Jim Coleman said: "It was a great game played in a good spirit. The defeat was easier to take when you analyse our performance against the best team in our league. It's also great to see players like Graham MacKendry, Will Neild, Martin Jessop and Henning Kaaber back among the regulars and enjoying themselves."

BLACKBURN THIRDS...17

TARLETON FIRSTS...26