NEW BRIGHTON 12pts - SEDGLEY PARK 9pts

A LOVELY wind-free day - strange for New Brighton - eight new players and great expectations!

First thoughts after the game were that there wasn't much classic rugby on view.

Both sides were nervous showing too much respect and were far too tentative.

Second thoughts were quite different. Two superb defensive outfits cancelled out each other's attacking skills.

Either side could have won, New Brighton did but a draw or Sedgley win might have been fairer.

Two minutes after the kick off Colins Stephens just missed a penalty attempt from 43 yards but three minutes later he was successful and Sedgley were 3-0 in the lead.

Brett, the New Brighton winger, replied in kind and it was 3-3.

All the pressure came from Sedgley but two try opportunities were squandered with failed line-outs on the home line.

Brett eased New Brighton ahead 6-3 and Sedgley fluffed another chance with a poor kick ahead in an open field. The ball going directly into touch.

Brett landed his third penalty and Sedgley were 9-3 down at half-time.

Four minutes into the second period Stephen slotted a magnificent 45 yard drop goal and hope returned. Richard Senior made two defence slitting breaks which almost brought tries but the reliable Brett put New Brighton on the score sheet next with his fourth penalty.

Radicanu went over the try line for what looked a good score but the referee didn't see it then Colin Stephens put over another penalty.

New Brighton came back and might have had a try but for a knock-on but two penalties enabled the Merseysiders to keep Sedgley at bay.

Both sides looked particularly strong. Neither will lose many game with Sedgley's problem integrating new players.

There was much to be pleased about but a pity about the outcome.

There is no game this weekend, next match is against Sandal at home, Saturday, September 16.