Portico Panthers 22 Pilkington Recs 8 PORTICO'S first game of the season in the first division could not have gone much smoother.

Two early penalties from Pilks gave the City Roaders a early lead, but strong defence kept them from crossing the line. Portico got on the score board with a penalty goal from Craig Peel. A strong burst through the middle of the field by Gareth Cunningham sent him racing 60 metres for a fine solo try, converted by Craig Peel.

In the second half, Portico had the first say with a strong run by Decker Sutton to send him over for a try, converted by Craig Peel.

Pilks hit back with a good set piece which sent them over for an unconverted try. A big defensive effort from Portico kept Pilks from scoring more points. Craig Peel added a penalty goal before a tapped penalty gave Dave Lee and Paul Ashurst the pace to send Gareth Cunningham over for his second try also converted by Craig Peel to bring the final score to 22-8 to Portico.

Man of the match went to Gareth Cunningham closely followed by Neil Kearns and Decker Sutton. top tackler was Neil Kearns.

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