the new season dawned in bright Wirral sunshine, with a blend of returning charges and new recruits eager to commence action in near full rules rugby. A double-header beckoned with the ever well numbered Anselmians and beefy Port Sunlight squads coming to enjoy the big back pitch at Hoylake.

Anselmians were first up and after a see-saw first 15 minutes the teams were locked in a 2-2 tussle. Alas the back-room staff of Hoylake then played their part, with team selections worthy of S Lancaster et al, and Anselmians prevailed in the second half by 6-1. Using the every faithful back of an envelope (now that fag packets are full of pictures) the Hoylake coaching staff finally did some team selections and even in-between games coaching, of sorts. Despite this (or maybe because of it) the second game against Port Sunlight didn't start well, with the fast ginger Sunlight kid scoring 3 quick tries before Hoylake found their stride and scored 2 great tries to one more by Port. The last half was nothing short of a revelation with Hoylake scoring 4 team tries and denying Port a sniff of the white line.

A tremendous first hit-out for the season, with all boys finding their feet in this big step-up. In particular the new boys (Harvey, Jo and Charlie) all displayed flashes of speed, great tenacity and excellent skills to show that they will be valued team mates.