TRAFFORD MV missed out on silverware when they lost 41-30 to Widnes in the final of the Lancashire Trophy at Rochdale RFC.

MV went into the clash as underdogs against a strong side that had already won the ADM Lancs Premier League and League Cup this season.

However, they started the game well, keeping Widnes under heavy pressure for the opening quarter.

Close calls came as Pat Eccles missed a drop goal and a penalty and both James Matthie and Jamie Kingdon had good runs and attempts at scoring denied by last-ditch defending.

A change in the game was signalled when Jamie Patient put in a good tackle and turnover in midfield for Widnes which resulted in a try for Josh Kenyon, converted by Kevin Leadbetter from the touchline.

Trafford responded immediately as the restart was taken and driven downfield by Andy Quigley which brought a penalty which Eccles converted.

MV kept the pressure on and forced a further penalty from Eccles to reduce the deficit to 7-6.

Widnes extended their lead, however, when Leadbetter launched a well-timed pass which put Gavin Hatton away, stepping inside the cover defence to score and Leadbetter converted.

On the half hour, Widnes created havoc on the MV defence and good play saw Josh Paton dive over in the corner for an unconverted try.

Trafford stayed in contention as they worked the ball from a line-out which saw Jamie Kingdon hit a good angle to split the Widnes defence and score under the posts and Eccles converted to make it 19-13 to Widnes at the interval.

After the break, Lewis Kingdon was carded for a late challenge and MV were reduced in number.

This swung the game dramatically as Widnes took full advantage and three tries were conceded in quick succession as Leadbetter kicked a penalty and then Patient, Hatton and finally Aaron Duggan took the score to an emphatic 41-13 in a short period of time.

It is not in MV's nature to lie down without a fight and they hit back at Widnes with a second try for Jamie Kingdon.

Then, Matthie crossed the line after a great run but a last-ditch tackle knocked the ball from his grip. 

Owen Nottley crashed over from close range after some good forward play, and Eccles converted as MV had Widnes ruffled.

It was Matthie that closed off MV's scoring as he crossed the line following a good performance from him and the whole MV team.

Despite the disappointment at the end, MV captain Andy Quigley and coach Ricky Phillips both expressed their pride and encouragement taken from the game.