ILL DISCIPLINE and missed chances were the story of the day as Workington Town slipped to an opening league defeat at the hands of Newcastle Thunder.

Newcastle picked up a second victory over Town in as many weeks, this time sneaking the league points after a 24-20 win.

It wasn't the best of games from either side and Town outscored their visitors by four tries to three, with Carl Forber working hard, alongside Phil Joseph and the on-loan Wigan duo of Jack Higginson and Macauley Davies.

But the boot of Benn Hardcastle proved their undoing as he added three penalties to his three conversions and put his side ahead.

Callum Phillips and Phil Joseph both touched down for Town in the first half which ended all square at 12-12, with two Carl Forber conversions.

But two quick penalties after the break put Newcastle back ahead before a try for Macauley Davies levelled matters again.

Newcastle came back with a second try for Evan Simons, which was converted and Hardcastle added a further penalty from 45-metres out which sealed the win.

Town added a late consolation try through Joe Hambley but it was too little too late.

They must now regroup before they head to Oxford next weekend.