WEST WARRIORS 52

EASTERN RHINOS 10

London Men's League Premier Division

COLCHESTER-based Eastern Rhinos Rugby League Club lost out in their first competitive game of the season.

The Rhinos came up against a West Warriors side who were last season's divisional champions and went on to win the national trophy in the play-offs. The visitors' lack of match practice showed against an extremely well-drilled Warriors side and by the end of the first quarter, the Rhinos trailed 20-0.

The Rhinos rallied in the second quarter and for a while matched the Warriors, adding a try of their own before half-time.

They scored a further converted try in the second half but as players tired, the Warriors ran in an number of unanswered tries to seal victory.

The Rhinos are inviting the region’s future stars to come along and give rugby league a try.

Youngsters will receive specialist coaching sessions, concentrating on developing their rugby core skills.

As the season progresses, players will have the opportunity to test their skills in tournaments against young players from the best teams in London and the south east of England.

Players of all ages and abilities from seven years old upwards are welcome to come along to training and try this fantastic sport.

Various training and development opportunities are available on the following days:

Monday evenings - training at Colchester RUFC from 6.30pm-7.45pm; Thursday evenings - core skills sessions will continue from 7pm-8pm at Colchester Leisure World astroturf pitches; Saturday morning training at Colchester Rugby Club from 10am-11am.

As the Eastern Counties' senior rugby league side, the Eastern Rhinos have always attracted players from across the region.

To strengthen their regional presence, the primary age group is now also holding training seasons at Stowmarket RUFC between 6.30pm-7.45pm on Tuesday evenings.

The Rhinos under-13 side secured a hard-fought 34-26 win against a very strong Elmbridge Eagles team.

Toby Clinch produced an inspired captain's performance and was named man of the match.

Most encouraging was the number of new players available in the squad.

The Rhinos host the Medway Dragons, this weekend.