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Wortley Dragons 28  v. 14 West Leeds
3rd September 2011
1.Bosworth 2.Mercer 3.Morton 4.Purnell 5.Seed 6.Thompson 7.Procter 8.Precious.K 9.Bottomley 10.Manson Scot 11.Brown 12.Sutherland 13.Precious.S 14.Hartley 15.Charanjit 16.Manson Sam 17.Pickthall
Tries: Bosworth - Morton - Seed - Thompson - Bottomley  Goals: Thompson (4)

The new season kicked off with the big local derby against the old enemy, West Leeds. Both teams were fired up from the start and keen to assert their authority from the off. Both defences were proving hard to break down, and the conditions didn't help much, with a strong wind blowing straight down the pitch. At half time the Dragons were just in front at 10 v 6 but with both wind and slope in their favour in the second half, confidence was high. The visitors had other ideas though and following three penalties and a Scot Sutherland sin binning, they went from under their own sticks to a position 5 mtrs from our own line. Our defence faultered and the scores were level at 10 v 10. Further pressure after we were again guilty of indiscipline led to another try soon after and the visitors were ahead 10 v 14. The Dragons then took control and with the forwards dominating the Wests pack, pressure built and the visitors struggled to hold our much bigger forwards. This opened the gaps up and the backs took full advantage. Once we got our noses in front again, there was never any real danger of us not gaining maximum points. With the return of a few ex-players plus an influx of new blood, the last couple of weeks have given everyone renewed hope and optimism for the season ahead. A large crowd was also pleasing to see, and the fundraising night in the Dragon after was also a huge success, with £400 raised for the club and the Benevolent Fund. After the heavy defeat inflicted on us by the Wests in our pre-season friendly it was nice to reverse the outcome when it mattered in the league. Next week we visit Underbank of Holmfirth, and there will be a coach going from the Dragon at 12.15 next saturday. All supporters welcome, first come first served.