Old Dunstonian 24 - Old Mid Whitgiftian 20

The D's team has been extensively remodelled with several new additions, notably Maori Cody Mackie at scrum half, combining a bullet pass with bull like strength. Also impressing was Jayden Dallalanna in the centre, who was generally involved in the old boys best attacking moments. A number of old stagers remain, and Wild, Boyd, Dennis and Scott all played a full part in this win.

Dunstonians cruised into a 14 - 3 lead with tries from Mackie and Peter Jefferys, before Mid Whits closed to within three as their pacy outside centre finished under the posts. Back came D's, sticking to their attempts to play a high tempo offloading game, and were rewarded when Mackie burrowed over after a series of close range drives for a converted score. Several opportunities to nail down the win and the four try bonus point went begging until in the closing stages the Mids blindside defied the expectations of the touchline to lumber fully 50 metres for an unconverted score. The game finished without further scoring denying the old boys the bonus point whilst earning Mids one of their own.

Both sides were committed to playing fast and loose and while the results were sometimes frenetic , this week saw D's looking more purposeful and threatening than previously. If a little more accuracy can be added to this approach along with some authority in the set phases then the seasons upward curve will continue to climb.

Next week sees the Old Boys visit Heathfield and Waldron for the first time in several years. Heathfield have started well, running league leaders East Grinstead to within a point so a stern test awaits this new side. 3pm at Heathfield.