Barrow Raiders capped off a remarkable return to the Betfred Championship by securing a play-off spot with a 30-12 victory at Batley Bulldogs.

In blistering conditions at the Fox’s Biscuits Stadium, the Raiders produced a dogged and clinical display to seal their place in the top six with four rounds remaining.

The boot of Ryan Shaw opened the scoring with 12 minutes gone, and less than a minute later Luke Cresswell was on hand to support Danny Langtree and cross for the opening try. 

A second of the match for Cresswell made it 14-0, before James Meadows scored the hosts’ first points on 26 minutes.

Shortly before half-time, Shane Toal was the recipient of slick hands on his inside to cross in the corner for his eighth try of the season, making it 18-6 at the break. 

Hakim Miloudi extended the advantage after 43 minutes with a flying finish in the corner, and Ryan Shaw scored eight minutes later to all-but-secure victory, surpassing 500 points for the Raiders in the process.

There was still time for the Bulldogs to cross again through Kieran Buchanan, but it mattered little as Paul Crarey’s side produced a workmanlike final quarter, stretching the lead late into the contest thanks to the boot of Shaw again.

Victory moves the Raiders to within one point of fourth-placed Batley in the league table. 

BATLEY BULLDOGS 12

Tries: James Meadows, Kieran Buchanan

Goals: Tom Gilmore 2

BARROW RAIDERS 30

Tries: Luke Cresswell 2, Shane Toal, Hakim MIloudi, Ryan Shaw

Goals: Ryan Shaw 5

Paul Crarey reaction

We spoke with Raiders head coach Paul Crarey following Sunday’s victory.

Ryan Shaw reaction

Outside back Ryan Shaw also reflected on passing 500 points in Raiders colours.

Buy tickets for Sunday’s game against Featherstone Rovers!