BOLTON Mets battled all the way in an 18-6 defeat at Widnes Tigers.

From the kick off the swirling wind caught the Mets out as they conceded a penalty in their own quarter. The Tigers took full advantage touching down under the sticks, giving them a 6-0 lead.

It looked as though this was going to be a busy afternoon for the Bolton side, but as they settled and acclimatised to the conditions the defence looked good, particularly the second row, Mick Booth, Dave Cain and loose forward Ryan Terry.

The score stayed the same until half time, and the Mets were unlucky not to draw level after several breaks from hooker Alex Thomas. Once again the Mets could only field one sub, and as players tired in the second half Widnes began to find gaps in the Bolton defence. Two quick tries gave them an 18-0 lead, and the game looked over.

Into the final quarter and the Mets started to push the Tigers back into their own half, with strong drives from prop Colin Crompton and centre Gaz Cartwright. Full back Andy Bowling went close, as did winger Gaz Hamer, but it was Crompton who put Bolton on the scoresheet, barging through a packed defence with Bowling converting.

Bolton kept the pressure on until the end, the Widnes side looked relieved when the final whistle blew.

This was an outstanding team display from the Mets and probably only a shortage of numbers robbed them of a better result.