Thornhill Trojans 39 Crosfields 16

NEW Crosfields coach Tony Benson feels there is much more to come from his players after a season-opening loss to National Conference League Three newcomers.

After only recently completing their winter season Thornhill’s cohesion was a significant factor in the opening exchanges, with Soap 16-0 behind inside 15 minutes.

Benson said: “The opening 10 minutes hurt us and was the difference between the two teams.

“I thought we worked hard and showed glimpses of what we know we can do.

“There are aspects of our game to work on and I’m confident the lads will bounce back.”

Crosfields, who host Gateshead Storm at Hood Lane on Saturday, kick off 2:30pm, had strong performers in man-of-the-match Hayden James and Steve Pickersgill.

Jack Reid dummied his way through the defence for his team’s first points and converted his own try.

Soap started the second half positively, Matty Barber forcing his was over in typical bulldozer style.

Crosfields got to within three scores when Luke Jones finished off a free-flowing move and Reid converted but playing catch-up rugby increases the risks and, from a dropped ball, Thornhill were able to pick up and score to secure the game.