Preston Grasshoppers 24pts - Sedgley Park 22pts

THIS pre-season warm-up comprised four 20-minute segments and was both entertaining and competitive, the latter reflected in three players being sin-binned, a new innovation this season.

The Grasshoppers' main concern was not to lose at home to a side from a lower division, hence the four periods and generous substitutions,

Sedgley's aim was to blend the new arrivals with established players and, although both clubs achieved their goals, Preston have the bigger problems.

Only a last minute penalty miss by Colin Stephens saved the home side from ignominy, but the Park player had been magnificent, kicking six from eight, while pack leader Tim Fourie was a veritable tower of strength, until replaced when he needed stitches close to an eye.

The Preston side started well with ten minutes of possession and a well-worked try before Stephens replied with a penalty.

A second try for the home side followed a line-out and scissors in the centre and this was converted for 12-3.

Stephens then reeled off four penalties before Fourie made the break for Chris Kinsey to score on the right wing. Stephens converted and at half-time Park led 22-12.

The remainder of the game was largely attrition as Grasshoppers managed two short range tries after Park had conceded penalties. One of them was converted and then a penalty pushed Preston ahead.

Park are at New Brighton tomorrow, kick-off 3pm, for possibly the hardest match of the season, but should be in good heart following their meeting with Grasshoppers. Players and supporters will travel with high hopes.