After their nine try romp the previous week, Warrington found their trip to newly promoted Blackburn a much more difficult proposition. This time nine tries were scored in total but the home side had the edge and Warrington suffered their first loss of the season.

Blackburn started well with an early penalty, They soon added to their total with a converted try but Warrington responded when good forward pressure ended with a muscular pick-up-and-go from Paul Thompson for a try converted by Ben Hockenhull. Blackburn came back again with a second converted try through their forwards. Warrington reduced the deficit when Danny Newens, making a welcome return to the fold, put in a clever kick and finished off in the corner to make the half time score 17-12.

The first period of the second half saw Blackburn in control and their dominance brought two unconverted tries. Warrington fought back when Martin Tierney crossed after seven good phases and Ben Hockenhull converted. Blackburn increased their lead with a further unconverted try but Warrington had the last word when slick handling from the backs created just enough space for Andy Almond to squeeze over in the corner.

“We competed well today,” said skipper Kevin Jones, “Especially up front, where Glenn Howson was outstanding. However, we gave away too many penalties to gift possession to what is a very good Blackburn outfit.”