Last season saw Stockport Rugby Club compete at the highest level in their history. They found life in National League 2 (North) an interesting challenge and they finished a very creditable 10th out of 16.

On the incoming list of players for this game would be hooker Paul Millea from Blackburn and flanker Max Skofic from Tarleton. Former Stockport Colt Lewis McKay returns to Stockport after spending the last two seasons, learning his trade as a prop, at Wilmslow. Fly Half Paul Edwards has come to Stockport following a move with his work from the South.

The game was played over 3 periods and it was not until the later stages of the first 30 minutes that Stockport started to get over the getting to know you process. Centre Greg Newton scored Stockport’s first try. Full back Mike Barlow received a wide pass and executed a neat chip ahead into space for Newton to collect.

Stockport extended their lead with two more tries in the second period of play. The first came from Cypriot International, fly half, Alex Zavallis-Roebuck who nipped through the narrowest of gaps to score from 5 metres out. New boy Lewis Mckay went over from even closer but showed good strength to muscle his way to the line and then a long arm stretched out and planted the ball over the line.

The Scottish visitors provided useful opposition all game and were rewarded with a single try as the game went into the final 20 minutes. Greg Newton bagged a second try after a period of Stockport pressure and young back row, Alistair Green finished off the 5 try Stockport performance when he finished off a neat handling move which would have pleased new backs coach Matt Bebbington. Final score 31-7

First impressions are that Stockport are an interesting mix of youth and experience as well as blend of well tuned skills and old fashioned forward grunt. There are at least 4 more players ready to step in for their first taste of being part of Stockport RUFC next week. Stockport ahead play host to White Craigs from Scotland and Welsh club Caernarfon. The action in this three way encounter kicks off at 2.0pm. Entrance to all spectators is free.

Elsewhere at Stockport Rugby Club work is about to start on an extension to the changing rooms and preparation work for a new pitch and training area are well advanced. This new playing area will be a huge benefit to the crowded Junior section of the club who have age group from Under 6 through to Under 19. The club will be fielding 4 senior teams every week this season as well as a regular veterans XV. Anyone interested in playing no matter what age or ability can contact the club on 07793134644 or look at their website at www.stockportrugby.co.uk