West Park 27 Workington 14 A DOMINATING performance in the second half took Park through to the last 16 of the NPI Cup.

Entertaining a previously unbeaten Workington currently league leaders of NW3, Park struggled for most of the first half after taking an early lead with a try by centre Phil Lawrenson created by splendid ball handling by both backs and forwards. Chris Glynn converted and then hit the upright from well out with a penalty attempt in reply to Workington's opening score via the boot of fly-half Neil McGarry, who then added two more penalties to take a 9-7 lead.

A Glynn penalty took back the lead only for Workington second row Jason Howarth to finish off a period of prolonged pressure on the home line with an unconverted try. Park's current malaise of lack of ball retention at vital moments surrendered the advantage but a storming run by Steve Bibby on the stroke of half-time gave promise of better things to come after half-time.

Dave Donovan and Paul Bailey were both stopped just short just after the interval and a slick scissors move saw Martin Strett send Phil Lawrenson in for his second, Glynn converting and adding a penalty for obstruction. As Harmon Tuavao was brought on for Carl Bibby and Martin Gaskell for Phil Houlton Park were well on top and it was no surprise when good harassing saw Phil Lawrenson pick up and complete a career first hat-trick from 25 metres out, Glynn added the goal and Park were home and dry.

This Sunday Park visit Ruskin Park in a repeat of last years Lancashire Trophy first round. Kick-off is at 2.30pm.

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