BLACKPOOL Scorpions started their league campaign with a 28-16 victory at Thatto Heath.

After 10 minutes Andy Johnston scooted from dummy half and raced 25 metres to score for Scorpions. Shortly after, Gareth Chadwick added a similar solo try, sidestepping his way to the line. Chris Pearson converted both tries to give the Scorpions a 12-0 lead.

Simon Pritchard created the next try when he made a break and then passed to winger Ben Simpson who raced 50 metres to score. Pearson converted to make it 18-0.

Pearson increased the lead to 22-0 when he took a long cut-out pass from Dave Tanner, dummied his opposite number and crashed over.

Scorpions took their foot off the pedal just before half-time which allowed Thatto Heath to score two converted tries to pull the score back to 22-12 at the break.

Thatto Heath scored again to make it 22-16 and, scenting victory, they started to throw the ball about to try and tire the Scorpions in the heat.

But Gareth Chadwick settled the Scorpions' nerves when he intercepted a stray pass and ran unopposed to the other end of the field to score under the posts. Pearson again converted to give the Scorpions a 12-point cushion.

RESULT: THATTO HEATH... 16 BLACKPOOL SCORPIONS... 28