Millom 35, Windermere 19.

AFTER leading the table for two months up to the halfway stage of this season's campaign, Windermere have lost their way since Christmas and show little sign of regaining their early form.

At Millom on Saturday they were outplayed for much of the game, particularly up front.

Millom opened in confident and determined fashion and scored 15 points in the first 15 minutes with the lethargic Windermere side struggling to get their hands on the ball.

When Windermere did win possession they created one or two chances only to lose them through faulty handling.

By half-time, Millom had established a 27-5 lead but Windermere gained encouragement from an excellent try scored by flanker Danny Blenkharn.

He picked up the ball over on the right and cut infield to touch down just to the left of the posts for Paul Gillespie to make the simple conversion.

Windermere improved in the second half but though they actually outscored Millom in this period, realistically, they never threatened to turn the game around.

James Nield, showing customary commitment, was the most dangerous player on view and in the Windermere pack, hooker Martin Bateman prevented Millom completely dominating the set-pieces and often was the first to the loose ball.

There were also good individual performances by Shaun Richardson and Danny Blenkharn, but until Windermere can find greater continuity they will continue to struggle against the better sides.

Windermere's second-half tries were scored by Darren Wood and Shaun Richardson - the latter carrying a couple of defenders over the line with him.

Paul Gillespie converted both tries.

Tomorrow (Saturday) sees Windermere renew their old rivalry with near neighbours Ambleside at Dawes Meadow.