THE odds of Kendal retaining their Northern League title are lengthening after defeat to Barrow – with victory over the Thorns in the two remaining fixtures between the sides now crucial.

As well as this fixture, Kendal were scheduled to host Isle of Man in the National Founders Cup at the weekend although adverse weather conditions resulted in flight cancellations.

Despite a cautious opening to the contest, Tom Withnell scored four early points for the hosts before Barrow asserted themselves with an 11-point run.

However, Kendal made moves to get back into the game and responded with Garth France’s three-point shot reducing the arrears to 15-10 at the end of the first quarter.

The second and third quarters followed a similar pattern with the home side threatening to establish authority through impressive offensive work by Mike Smith and Phil Mason.

However, costly turnovers blighted the Warriors, allowing Barrow to break quickly and score easy baskets – resulting in a 51-36 lead as the third quarter closed.

The fourth period saw a defensive re-shuffle, with the overall play improving for the remainder of the game as Kendal showed increased levels of fight and determination.

Greater defensive pressure allowed Kevin Mason and Keith McInnes to instigate fast break opportunities and score with greater frequency, although the damage was already done.

Scorers
M Smith 15, P Mason 12, K Mason 10, K McInnes 6, G France 5, T Withnell 4, K Arfanis 1