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Friendly win over Gosport bodes well for new season




NEWBURY Blues kicked off their pre-season in style with a crushing win in a friendly at Gosport and Fareham on Saturday.

Blues, who begin their London and South East Division campaign at Chichester on September 7, proved far too strong for the Hampshire side, who play a division below.

They powered to a 79-14 victory – and although it was only a friendly and there will be sterner tests to come, it was a hugely positive display by Blues.

Head coach James McAvoy was delighted with the performance.

He said: “Our attack was very good and we still left a few points out there.

“We had 29 players and it gave us a chance to look at a few combinations.

“We want to play a more up-tempo game this season following the success we had at the end of last season.

“We’ve got another friendly at home to Reading on Friday (7.30pm) and the challenge then will be to play with a bit more shape.

“Reading are traditionally strong up front and they will prove a big test – it got a bit loose on Saturday at times because of our ability to score on transition.”

Blues go into the new season bursting with confidence after a tremendous end to last season saw them pull clear of relegation danger and lift the Papa John’s Shield.

They have been boosted by the arrival of two new coaches – Joe Whatmore will concentrate on defence while Will Reeve will look after skills.

And the squad is looking stronger than ever.

McAvoy said: “Kyle Doel and Miles Albert have both just come back from long-term knee injuries and they both did very well.”

New signings Euan Baird and front row Will Esam both impressed, with flying winger Baird scoring on his debut.

And McAvoy is also delighted with the acquisition of another front row, Callum Varrell and back Fergus Walker, who has signed from Rams.

Blues will be looking to maintain their pre-season progression against Reading under floodlights tomorrow (Friday) and welcome all supporters to attend.



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