So many first matches are fraught with peril; there may be a lack of personnel or the players selected may not be completely match fit or on top of their own personal game. This encounter was an enjoyable battle for those watching and will give the coaching staff plenty of encouragement yet much to think about.

All as it should be.

For a first outing Dan George’s charges will be pleased with much of their showing whilst regretting some missed opportunities late on which should have given them five league points to take home as opposed to just one for coming close.

In essence, tight play was a cause for happiness despite a short spell in the second half when the scrum lost its way somewhat. This was soon put to rights and possession from this phase returned to normal for the rest of play.

The lineout was a revelation! A’s have put together a pack and a method which gave the backs (or the back row) plenty of good, fast ball and this lasted the entire match. Throws were swift and accurate and the take was assured and aggressive throughout. Long may this last!

Loose play and defence showed some ring rust but practice will soon cure that. Backs and forwards ran with precision and intent and when possession was gained it was normally maintained.

Purists will argue that there was a technical victory since the visitors scored three tries to two; that won’t wash on the field or in coaching meetings! Indiscipline gave the hosts a way to snatch victory and their three penalties in the second period were enough to give them the day’s bragging rights by one meagre point.

Kennedy Sylvester (4mins), Kemp Price (38mins) and Oluwaseyi Ajeigbe (45mins) all crossed for Albanians and Sam Jones will have been happy with his long range kicking.

All in all not a bad day at the office. But the Henley visit next week will again test this exciting side.

Brian Quinn,

Roving Reporter