Rugby League: Wigan struggle to show their class

Workington Town, from the Third Division, did enough yesterday to confirm their remarkable improvement this season but not quite enough to deny Wigan their place in the semi-finals of the Regal Trophy.

Wigan were firmly in control with tries from Frano Botica, Denis Betts and Sam Panapa, all improved by Botica, in the first 25 minutes. But Town hit back bravely with tries by Mark Mulligan, and Paul Penrice.

Dean Marwood, the League's leading goal-scorer, added both goals and Wigan were grateful for Phil Clarke's try to ease them to a 24-12 victory . Hull were the other side to book their place in this morning's semi-final draw, despite Leigh taking an early 6-0 lead at The Boulevard. Hull came back to win 24-14.

Widnes's quarter-final at Bradford Northern was one of the matches to fall victim to the weather. Widnes were displeased at travelling across the Pennines to find the game had been called off at 1pm. The match has been re-arranged for Wednesday night, although Widnes are arguing that, if there is any doubt about Odsal being fit, it should be switched to the heated pitch at Headingley.

Castleford had already qualified for the semi-finals by beating St Helens 12-8. Kevin Ward, whose dismissal for tripping after five minutes had a major influence on the result, will appear before the disciplinary committee on Christmas Eve and a ban could put him out of important holiday fixtures against Wigan and Widnes.

In the only First Division match of the day, Hull Kingston Rovers re-grouped after last week's strike action. They beat Warrington 13-11 to move off the foot of the table. A try seven minutes from time by Craig McKeough did the trick. With the three other Second Division matches frozen off, Featherstone Rovers moved further ahead at the top by winning 30-8 at London Crusaders.

Hunslet face a fine after refusing to play at Batley, even though the pitch was passed fit by the referee. Ryedale-York's home game against Barrow was called off during the second half with Ryedale leading 60-0.

Garry Schofield will seek compensation if Leeds block his plans to play for Manly next summer. His agent, Alan McColm, said: 'A solicitor's letter has gone to Leeds and if the matter is not resolved early on Monday, a writ will be issued seeking substantial damages.'