A narrow defeat for Pats in the opening game of the new season against a strong Hereford team despite a valiant fight back in the second period.

The players took the field eager to show their skills after a solid pre-season. To enable as many as possible to be involved, the coaches decided a format of 3 periods of 20 minutes each.

Pats started the first period brightly, Jim swooping in at the breakdown to win crucial possession, Barney demonstrating his impressive kicking skills and Harley delivering a crunching tackle that set the tone for his own outstanding performance. However, 2 quick tries saw Hereford take a lead into the break.

With some personnel changes and a reshuffle in the backline, Pats began the second period strongly. Some fine line out lifts provided a platform to attack, and the first points came after Louis broke the gain line on the blind side, Beau quickly recycling the ball and Harley crashing over in the corner. Another line out set up a slick passing move. Benny combined with Barney, delivering the ball out wide to Will C who beat the despairing dives to cross in the corner. A sweet conversion from Barney and the scores were level. The

Hereford forwards were not to be denied their moment however, as they made their physical advantage count just moments later. Their powerful number 8 set up an attack and their noses were in front at the break.

A low scoring final period followed, with Pats pressing hard. A mazy run from Tristan caught the eye, with Sam T also carrying powerfully into the opposition 22. However, Pats were unable to turn their possession into points and Hereford were relieved when the final whistle sounded, with Pats again deep in opposition territory.

An encouraging start to the season and roll on the next match!

Russ Coddington