Under the watchful eye of Pat Lam a near full strength Dings using scrum power and fast handling in the backs raced into a 33-7 mid point lead.

However Clifton, boosted by strengthening key positions from their impressive newcomers and returnees "won" the second period by 19 points to 10. Embedding new players with existing strengths a bonus for both sides.

Impressing for Clifton was centre Jamal Hamilton from Leicester Lions and returning back row man Niall Gibbons who opened Clifton’s account.

Flanker Jamie Collier, prop Louis White and fly half Tom Quinlan will boost the squad with second row Shay Sainsbury showing a high level of fitness and determination throughout the evening.

Both clubs gained valuable playing time for players old and new and we wish Dings good luck for the forthcoming season.

Roger Opie