Barrow Raiders’ Betfred Championship survival was confirmed on the final day of the season, despite falling to a narrow 26-24 defeat to Widnes Vikings at the Northern Competitions Stadium. 

The Raiders needed to match Swinton Lions’ result at Bradford Bulls to ensure safety, and a 50-0 victory for the Bulls at Odsal meant the Raiders would’ve avoided a place in the bottom three, regardless of the outcome of their game against the play-off-chasing Vikings.

A dream start saw Paul Crarey’s side go 8-0 ahead inside the opening 10 minutes.

Ryan Shaw’s early penalty goal nudged them two in front, before Luke Cresswell spotted a gap and broke through to touch down to the right of the posts.

The Vikings responded just after the midway stage of the half, Jack Owens touching down before quick hands saw Rhodri Lloyd go over for their second of the game.

Another try came the visitors’ way before half-time, Ryan Lannon showing his strength after contact to barge over from close range.

Tom Gilmore’s penalty early into the second half stretched Widnes’ advantage, but it would be the Raiders who posted the first try after the break.

Max Clarke scored it, after breaking away down the left touchline from near halfway then bursting past Vikings full-back Owens on the outside to complete a remarkable solo effort.

Shaw’s conversion brought the teams back to within four, but Owens’ second of the  afternoon saw the Vikings nudge further clear again.

The teams continued to exchange points heading deeper into the final 15 minutes – Shaw and Luke Broadbent scoring either side of Mike Butt.

However, there would be no fairytale finish for the Raiders, despite their best efforts, as the Vikings held on to secure a win which saw them ensure a play-off finish on the last day of the regular Championship season.

BARROW RAIDERS 24

Tries: Cresswell, Clarke, Shaw, Broadbent

Goals: Shaw 4

WIDNES VIKINGS 26

Tries: Owens 2, Lloyd, Lannon, Butt

Goals: Gilmore 3

Post-match reaction

Hear from Raiders head coach Paul Crarey following Sunday’s final day defeat.

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