Tom Walker the unlikely Barrow Raiders match-winner against Rochdale Hornets

[Total Rugby League]

BARROW RAIDERS 24 ROCHDALE HORNETS 14 DAVE PARKINSON, Speed Competitions Stadium, Saturday BARROW snapped a three-game losing run with a hard-fought win against battling Rochdale...

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[FILIPODELTORO]

I've been pretty vocal in recent weeks about the number of points we've been conceding and the run of results. It probably seems strange to be taking positives from another defeat, but Saturday felt different.

For the first time in a while, there wasn't the familiar second-half capitulation. Following the game, it was encouraging to see a team that showed resilience, commitment and a willingness to compete right to the final whistle.

Whatever people think about the long away trips or the constant talk of budgets, those things don't dictate mentality. On Saturday, the leadership, desire, confidence and team spirit that have been missing at times were all there to see. Credit to the players and the coaching staff for lifting the squad ahead of what was always going to be a tough trip to Barrow.

As GT said in his post-match interview, though, it has to be backed up. A positive performance only means something if it becomes the standard. If we don't produce the same level against Whitehaven next Sunday, then Saturday's efforts will count for very little.

Well done to everyone involved for the response at Barrow. The challenge has now been set—repeat that commitment and intensity on Sunday, stop the slide, and let's finally get the win this club and its supporters deserve.

[Excolt 1]

Great effort