Barrow Raiders produced a determined display but fell just short against in-form York City Knights at the Matt Johnson Prestige Stadium. 

After taking the lead inside six minutes through Italy international Anton Iaria, the Raiders found themselves behind after 25 minutes, with Joe Brown and Will Oakes both crossing for the visitors.

The topsy-turvy nature of the contest continued heading into half-time as Luke Cresswell and Matty Marsh exchanged tries, but a powerful effort from Jordan Thompson in the 38th minute saw the Knights lead by 10 at the break. 

Despite having plenty of possession at the start of the second half, Paul Crarey’s side were unable to turn territory into points and were made to rue their missed chances as Liam Harris scored 12 minutes from time. 

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Harris then added two more points from the boot, before utility back Gary Wheeler grabbed a well-deserved consolation for the hosts in the closing stages.

Next up, the Raiders are in 1895 Cup semi-final action, at home to Featherstone Rovers on Sunday 8 May. 

Kick-off at the Matt Johnson Prestige Stadium will be at 2:00pm, with the winner set to act as the curtain-raiser for the 2022 Betfred Challenge Cup final at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Sunday’s fixture will also be shown live on the OuRLeague app. 

BARROW RAIDERS 18

Tries: Anton Iaria, Luke Cresswell, Gary Wheeler 

Goals: Jarrod Sammut 3

YORK CITY KNIGHTS 30

Tries: Joe Brown, Will Oakes, Matty Marsh, Jordan Thompson, Liam Harris

Goals: Liam Harris 5

Paul Crarey reaction

Raiders head coach Paul Crarey spoke to Premier Sports after the game.

Get your tickets for Sunday’s 1895 Cup semi-final.