The Dungog Warriors handed the Charity Shield back to the Stroud Raiders but emerged with plenty of positives from their 16-0 loss in their first trial of the year.
After a scoreless first 20 minutes, Stroud crossed early in the second period and took its lead out to 12 when they went in for their second converted try just before the next break.
Although Dungog created plenty of chances Stroud were just too good on the day.
Dungog had plenty of opportunities as well going close on several occasions but their hands let them down on occasions as well as the Raiders defence being a tough nut to crack.
The final period of play had plenty of action with a player from Stroud receiving his marching orders and a final try to the Raiders just before fulltime had the Raiders regaining the charity shield with a 16-0 win
Although going down on the scoreboard there was a lot to like in the Warriors performance.
With only eight players from last years grand final squad and seven players having their first run for Dungog plus a couple returning after a year or two out , there was enough to suggest that the more time they spend on the field with each other the better they will get.
New Players Aidan Brekelmans, Jordan Campbell, Jeremy Fredericks and Tim Reeve all showed plenty of potential and it was great to see ex Dungog Juniors Jacob Long, Jordan Mitchell and Harry Boorer all go well in their first senior game for Dungog.
Throw in Scott Robson and Chris Nevin back from a year away from the game along with Matt Hinton who made a great return after injury cut short his season last year and captain coach Nathan Ward has plenty of potential to work with as the Warriors try to go one better than they did last season.
With the trials out of the way the competion proper kicks off this Friday night when Dungog host Kearsley with the game set down for a 7.30 kickoff.
Kearsley return to the competion after a long time away and have been very impressive in their trial games so far and will be a stern test for the Warriors on Friday night so get along and show your support for the Warriors.
Following the game back at the RSL, Dungog will be holding its popular jumper auction where you get the chance to buy the number of a jumper and if they score first try at a Warriors home game you win
