The Cumbrians were defending a 23-month unbeaten home league record at Derwent Park, but were not helped by Stephen Dawes' red card after a mass brawl.

Tony Duggan led the Way for the Welsh with three tries, Damien Quinn, Luke Young, Michael Ryan, Grant Epton, Ryan Barton and Carl de Chenu also crossing.

Workington's scores came from Andrew Beattie, Neil Fraser and Ryan Campbell.

The Crusaders gave a trial to union side Newport Gwent Dragons' Shawn van Rensburg, who came on as substitute.

The South African-born player was a surprise inclusion following his registration with the Rugby Football League just 24 hours before kick-off.

Crusaders coach John Dixon said: "It was a tough encounter. It's a long way to travel to Workington.

"I was very pleased with what we did, we were strong, we tackled well and I thought we played pretty well.

"I thought Geraint Davies, Dean Fitzgerald, Phil Cushion and Ryan Barton were all outstanding for us today."

Workington: Ganley, Frazer, Beattie, Dawes, Woodcock, Kirkbride, L. Campbell, Vaughan, King, Lavulavu, Saayman, Miller, Roper.
Subs: Manihera, Beaumont, R. Campbell, Tunstall.

Celtic Crusaders: Duggan, De Chenu, G. Davies, Epton, Morgan, Young, Van Dijk, Barton, Ryan, Cushion, Hockin, Quinn, Fitzgerald.
Subs: Simm, Scully, Van Rensburg, Seibold.