DOWNIES sealed the first win of the Platinum Jubilee year as the game returned for the first time in two years after a Covid hiatus.

Aaron Lancaster, 27, hailed the ball at the capstain on Workington's dock after swimming down the river to victory.

Speaking after he hailed the ball, Aaron said: "I feel absolutely delighted... up the Downies."

Despite the Downies' win, it felt like a win for the whole town - with hundreds taking to the streets of Workington to support the ancient tradition.

The ball was thrown to kick off the series by Brodhie Saffil-Kirkpatrick, who was absolutely delighted to do the honours.

Many on the ground said that this Good Friday was the biggest they had seen in a number of years.

Joe Clark, a veteran player, said that the game was an epic battle that was worthy of the return after three years

Speaking to the News & Star whilst taking a break from the scrum, Joe said: "It’s a game befitting the first game back for three years.

"It’s an epic battle.

"Everybody wants a jubilee ball. I’m soaked from head to foot.

"It’s certainly deserving for the first game back in three years.

"It’s a fantastic crowd.

"People have missed it so much.”

And an epic battle it was; the ball was thrown from the scrum a number of times, creating a huge amount of excitement for spectators.

At one point, it was even launched from the steps near to Wilko, after a spurt from an Uppie to the top of the steps.

It was clear to see how delighted all playing and watching were to have their game back - with beaming smiles, laughs and jokes and chants of 'Up, up, up' and 'Down, down, down' throughout.

The next game will take place on Tuesday at 6:30pm.