Blackburn 48 Whitehaven 0

TITLE hunters Blackburn will be aiming to clinch the North Lancashire and Cumbria championship on the road next month.

Blackburn go to Aldwinians on April 11 and then lock horns with Wigan a week later knowing that a couple of wins would be enough to spark the celebrations.

Blackburn warmed up for their crucial assignment, running in 48 unanswered points against Whitehaven and, significantly, securing a precious bonus point following a hat-trick of tries for star man Matt Hughes.

Craig Aikman set the ball rolling with Blackburn’s first try.

The conversion was missed on what proved to be a tricky afternoon for goal kicking with a gusty wind blowing across the pitch.

A second try followed quickly though, Sam Morgan charging through the gap and providing the ammunition for Rick Maudsley, who ran on to score.

Blackburn continued to drive forward, and Hughes was next to cross the line as ‘Burn kept the scoreboard spinning with another try.

The bonus point was quickly secured, again ‘Burn stole a Whitehaven lineout, the forwards took up play, and when the ball was released to Hughes he swerved past two defenders to score.

Whitehaven had an opportunity to reduce the arrears, but they missed a penalty kick and with Blackburn boasting a 22-point lead at half-time, the Cumbrians were left to rue their wasted chance.

Indeed, Blackburn needed just five minutes of the second period to register another try as Hughes completed his hat-trick.

Blackburn were in top gear now, and when the ball was released from the backs, Leon Fifield stepped inside to touch down.

Although the conversion was missed, ‘Burn quickly added to their tally.

Fifield made the break, feeding the ever alert Maudsley, who was stopped just short of the try line.

Paul Gregson then drove on, the ball was recycled and Aikman snapped a pass to Fifield who scored again and also added the extras.

With the clock ticking towards the final whistle, Blackburn added their final try and conversion with five minutes left.

After a quick scrum, Blackburn drove Whitehaven off the ball, and Jordan Pearson then powered over the try line.

A Blackburn spokesman said: “April 11 could be a huge day for Blackburn, so we’d appeal to all our supporters to try and make the trip to Aldwinians to support the boys who have performed magnificently all season.”

Blackburn has announced an end of season club lunch at Ramsgreave Drive ahead of the Wigan fixture (April 18) Meet in the clubhouse at noon, with dinner served at 12.30pm The coach departs from Ramsgreave Drive to Wigan at 2pm with approximate return to the ground for 6.30pm. £25 includes lunch and travel.