it was the more disappointing as both teams went into this fixture full of confidence and optimism after 2 very successful training sessions with both teams looking sharp. Thursday saw a new record for those attending training with over 60 players present.

Head coach George Hillan reflected on the 1st XV performance and day in general.

"The 1st XV’s pre-match preparations went well and we looked ready for the challenge which lay ahead.

We started well with some good phases of continuity and the early pressure resulted in a penalty which gave us additional field position.

A turnover at the line out resulted in some early pressure from the home team, which eventually resulted in a try being scored. This affected our self believe and confidence for which we never really recovered.

There are some areas we need to concentrate upon as a coaching team and as a collective, which can be done on the training pitch.

I have to thank all the players who took to the field, as everyone one of them (1st and 2nd’s) never gave up - they gave 100% until the very last minute and as a coach you can not ask anymore of a player.

As I said to the players after the game, this fixture is a game we put in the memory bank and file as to forget. We never look back - we look forward and prepare for the next game. There will always be another game!

if you want to recall this game it is when you are looking for inspiration and think I don’t want to be in that position again so lets move forward.

The squad will meet on Tuesday and start our preparations for the first home game of the season".