THORNBURY began their preparations for the new season with their first and second team facing Old Halesonians. The firsts fell short, but the seconds won.

The weather had prevented rugby being played at the club ground in Rockhampton so the matches were switched to the artificial surface at Lockleaze, Bristol.

For the seconds, the afternoon began well with Jon Sanderson scoring a try after 104 seconds. Hooker Tom Williams converted.

The duo then scored again four minutes later for 14-0.

James Donohue had a fine game and ripped through on a dangerous run, but the ball was dropped out wide close to the line.

Thorns were not to be denied, however, and after Old Halesonians were turned over in their 22, Ben Read showed great determination in breaking though several tackles to score. Williams added the extras for 21-0.

Midway through the first half, Old Hales opened their account with a converted try following a driving lineout.

Thornbury scored again when Dan Green raced in shortly after the restart. Williams converted and Thornbury led 28-7.

The second half was one-way traffic. Donohue juggled the ball when breaking through, deceived the defence and scored.

Sanderson completed his hat-trick of tries before replacement Marcus Groves finished off a fine break by Green.

Alfie Richardson, also a replacement, used his pace to score two late tries as Thorns won 53-7.

u THE firsts’ outing was a different story, however, as Thornbury defended well but struggled to get their hands on the ball.

The visitors scored two tries in the first half, whereas Thornbury’s opportunities to score ended with a knock-on due to the rain-soaked slippery pitch.

The second half was more of the same with Thorns struggling to get decent possession but defending stoutly.

Old Halesonians scored a third try early in the second half, before Thornbury came close through Tom Williams.

A tired Thorns side became guilty of kicking away possession late in the game, but there was no further score and Old Halesonians held on for a 15-0 win.

On Saturday, Thornbury firsts travel to Cleve. Kick-off 3pm.