Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey has hailed his side for their defensive sturdiness after they kicked off their 2022 Betfred Championship campaign with a 22-10 victory over Sheffield Eagles.
In front of a healthy crowd of almost 2,000 at the Matt Johnson Prestige Stadium, the hosts kept the inaugural 1895 Cup winners scoreless in the second half to secure a memorable opening-weekend win.
Conditions were difficult for both sides, but it was the Raiders who stood firm, despite significant pressure from the visitors towards the end of the match.
REPORT: Barrow Raiders 22-10 Sheffield Eagles
Speaking post-match, Crarey paid tribute to his players for grinding out a result against seasoned Championship opposition.
“The weather was brutal and our defence was brutal,” he said.
“I think they had four repeat sets on our goal-line, but we held them out and played really well in that second half.
“We’re working so hard as a group, for the fans and for the sponsors.
“I thought it was great to start at home and get a win against a side that is only going to get better.”
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Crarey also singled out the performance of young Jake Carter, who stepped into the halves at short notice to partner Ryan Johnston.
Off-season recruit Jarrod Sammut was set to start Sunday’s game but failed to recover from an ankle injury suffered earlier in the week, despite the best efforts of Raiders medical staff.
“I thought the lads handled the game really well, and handled the situation well when we had to pull Jarrod out,” Crarey added.
“Young Jake Carter stepped in, and he and Ryan controlled the game really, really well.
“We managed the game well and kept the scoreboard ticking over with some kicks.”
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