Workington Reds paid the price for a dreadful first half-an-hour in which they conceded twice and hardly offered a threat.

They improved before half-time and were much more competitive in the second half against Warrington Town, but were unable to find a way through.

The one bright spot was the fact that last season’s leading scorer – Scott Allison – played for 45 minutes and appeared to come through it well after his recent hernia operation

Aaran Taylor – Workington’s star man – was soon in action as Warrington started positively but he made comfortable saves while two other snap shots were well off target.

Reds just weren’t able to keep the ball and all the play was virtually in their half of the field.

They were rescued twice by Taylor in quick succession, clearing a flicked header with his feet and then going full length to hold another header, this time from Tony Gray.

But it was no surprise when Town took the lead on 23 minutes. Although Conor Tinnion did well to get back and head away a dangerous cross, Gray collected on the left and curled a fine shot into the top corner.

Four minutes later Warrington scored again. A fine flowing move undid the Reds and, although Taylor saved the initial shot, Mackreth followed-up to drive home.

Reds had their best move in the 35th minute when they split the home defence but Kieran Maguire’s cross was hammered behind by a home defender for a fruitless corner.

Allison came on for the second half, replacing Gari Rowntree, and Reds immediately looked more purposeful going forward.

There was almost a third goal for the home side after Dan Wordsworth under-hit a back pass. Brodie got there but poked the ball wide.

There was a late chance for Reds when Cowperthwaite’s curling free kick flew wide, with Sheldon Mossop sliding in but he was unable to connect.