CONDITIONS couldn’t have been better for the first game of the season between Old Otleinsians and Nestle Rowntree.

Following the sad loss of Club President George Leach only a few days before, many old faces came down to Chaffers Field to support the ‘Lads’ on their return.

New coach Andy Hinchcliffe was welcomed to the Club, along with new player Jack De Ath, and returning winger Declan Jackson.

It was a convincing win, with seven tries and five conversions scored. This first game will give Hinchcliffe plenty of ‘food for thought’ on where improvements can be made, to ensure this is the promotion season.

Rowntree's made themselves known throughout the match, despite not making it over the line. They scrummaged very well, with their excellent hooker making key yards, either in the scrum, or with ball in hand. Their pacey full back defended valiantly, but the constant wave of pressure from the home side was too much to hold back.

Captain Sam Featherstone was excellent in the air, securing every line out, and facilitating quick ball out to the backs.

The whole team played well, with outstanding performances from Harry Bentley, Ethan Heade and Jay Walsh.

‘Ensians now need to focus on post summer fitness training, and defence. On more than one occasion, Nestle were given space to build up a head of steam, instead of cutting their advances short.