After missing the West Cumbrian derby in July, Workington Town back-row forward Alex Szostak was delighted to be a part of his side’s 60-20 win over Whitehaven.

The Scotland international returned to the club in June after missing the start of the season due to work commitments but has since become a regular feature in Phil Veivers’ side.

Szostak, right, has made six appearances for Town since his return, scoring one try.

“It was my first derby of the year after being a water carrier for the last one,” Szostak said. “When I was playing last year my final game was against Whitehaven.

“It was good to get back into a derby game. It’s a big occasion for the club and it was extra special because we made it a clean sweep."

Town booked their place in the Championship Shield semi-final with Sunday’s win and will face Featherstone a week on Sunday. But, before that, they have to travel to play Dewsbury Rams on the final day of the league campaign.

“Getting into the play-offs has been our goal. We’ve achieved that and we can now take it forward from there.

“The lads are feeling good, we’re confident in the camp and want to carry on what we’re doing.

“The Haven game was a massive example of the commitment the lads have for each other. We’re a big team unit and we’re all about working hard for each other.

“For example, if you make a break it doesn’t amount to anything if you don’t have a man on your shoulder. We always have to make sure there’s someone there.

“In defence we like to have a few in the tackles and teamwork is a massive part of our ethos.

“It’s great when the crowd gets behind you and you know out there that the coaches are expecting a performance.

“Our mentality at the weekend was to keep going and be relentless.”