We played “down the slope” in the first half which was very closely contested with some strong tackling and rucking from both sides. In fact it took several minutes for play to move away from the 10m either side of the halfway line as both teams tested the other and looked for openings.

The game was being played at a high tempo and the referee looked for advantages where possible to keep the ball in play.

Eventually Corsairs were able to work space on the left after a move that involved a number of players - support and good handling kept the ball alive - to score the game’s opening try.

The hosts hit back soon after the restart and scored a fine individual try.

Half- time - 5-5.

We changed almost the entire team at half time to ensure everyone played at least half a game and although now playing up the slope our fresher legs against a tiring home team really told as we ran in 8 tries in the second period without reply.

There were some fine team and solo efforts and the team worked hard in defense to contest possession and keep Southwell pinned in their own half.

This was a good start to the season - particularly as we were playing with 8 new or returning players all of whom played a full part in an all-round team success.

Final score - 5-45.