But we came back with two excellent tries from Jon Boatman and Danny Weegram. It could have gone either way at 20-17 but the home side got a try under the posts in the last minute.
It was the manner of the performance which was pleasing. Chocky Davies said: "The opposition were very big lads and had loads of Under 20 and Under 19 internationals but we held our own for most of teh game. It was the fastest and most intense rugby we've played against since we were high up in the National leagues but we did really well."
Both Allan Milne and Davy Tighe were missing in the backs. Paul Hagan made his debut and looked sharp, until he suffered a calf strain, while Darren Thomas and Phil Wallis were outstanding at half back.