INJURIES and absences took their toll on a spirited Blackburn team who suffered a derby defeat against an inspired Colne and Nelson outfit.

With the game just about playable due to overnight frost, Blackburn struggled for most of the game to get out of first gear. In contrast, Colne and Nelson's forwards were up for it and drove constantly at the visitors -- and but for some courageous tackling would have scored more than their solitary try.

With key players missing, Blackburn missed most of their ball-carrying forwards and although they toiled away they rarely crafted any decent try-scoring opportunities.

As the game entered the second half, Blackburn's plight became more and more desperate as they trailed their hosts 10-0.

However, midway through the half, fly-half Richard Bradford was able to create an opening with an inspired break from a ruck, for centre Micky Cottam to bring the scoreline to a more respectable 10 - 7.

Blackburn pushed for the winning score in the closing stages and although Colne & Nelson gave away several penalties the visitors were unable to convert them into points and victory went to the home side.

Blackburn manager John Toms said: " We had plenty of honest endeavour out on the paddock but unfortunately not enough match winners. All credit to Colne & Nelson for the way they played today. The return match promises to be a cracker."

COLNE & NELSON FIRSTS...10

BLACKBURN THIRDS...7