Over 6,000 West Cumbrian rugby league fans were treated to a fantastic display from Scotland to draw with the number one nation New Zealand in Workington on Friday.

Local fans turned out in force to support Scotland at their second home, with a hoard of youngsters also involved, some getting a first taste of international rugby.

Whether they were singing in the choir, forming a guard of honour, flagbearers or leading the teams out as mascots, it was a night to remember for many.

One Scottish fan said it was the most meaningful version of Flower of Scotland he had heard for a long as the young choir sang their hearts out.

And it was a good omen for the national side whose defence took the wind out of the Kiwis sails.

The stadium fell silent for the traditional haka but the New Zealanders could not live up to that ferociousness in the rest of the clash.

And Scottish boss Steve McCormack said it was one of the proudest moments of his life when Danny Brough's conversion sailed between the posts and they sealed a draw in front of an appreciative crowd.

The former Haven chief said: "I am as proud as anything, not only for the never-say-die attitude from our lads but also the manner, in which, we got that result.

"We were probably a bit disappointed that we didn't win to be honest, although maybe I'm being a little harsh there.

"I thought my players were sensational. You can't underestimate what these players have done.

"You look at our squad, the way they've conducted themselves for four weeks, and the way they've played. They've improved from game one to game three.

"We've played against the world's best team tonight, with a young side with senior players stepping up.

"So, from my point of view, I'm always proud no matter what team I coach but that was brilliant."

Workington Town star Brett Phillips played his part coming off the bench in the second half.

And his entrance to the field was met by one of the biggest cheers of the night from his home crowd.

"I thought our bench really stood up people like Billy McConnachie, Frankie Mariano and then Brett Phillips came on at the back end and that lifted the crowd as well when he came on and he was outstanding," he added.

"Everybody has played their part, all the little efforts that maybe people don't see, digging in for your mates, they've done that and that was a world class performance tonight."

Scotland captain Danny Brough echoed his views, saying the pride he felt was immense.

"To snatch a draw at the end there was probably the proudest moment of my Scottish career," he said. "I am really proud and this is something to look back on."