ROYSTON Rugby Club s pre-season training gained further pace this week with three fixtures. On Wednesday night the first team squad welcomed an Army XV from Bassingbourn to The Heath for the playing of the Dawson Cup for the first time since 2001. The

ROYSTON Rugby Club's pre-season training gained further pace this week with three fixtures.

On Wednesday night the first team squad welcomed an Army XV from Bassingbourn to The Heath for the playing of the Dawson Cup for the first time since 2001.

The Dawson Cup is a fixture traditionally played between Royston and the Army at the start and end of the season.

After some early Royston pressure, the Army took the lead through a sniping run from their scrum-half leading to an unconverted try.

This early set-back seemed to galvanise the Royston side with forwards and backs combining well to eventually set winger Dave Mason over in the corner to bring the scores level just before half-time.

The second half saw more of the same from Royston, with further scores from Jack Hillman, two from Kirk Woodford and a second from Mason to bring the game to an end with a 27-5 victory to the Crows.

Saturday saw the first team make the short trip up the A10 to face Cambridge Exiles.

Royston kicked off on a day where the blustery conditions were going to make handing difficult, and got off to a perfect start with lock Colin Letch crashing over from close range in the opening minutes.

The visitors' pack dominated possession giving the backs plenty of ball, releasing wing Chris Wallace to score a try which was quickly followed by another from Will Phillips, both going unconverted.

A penalty from Colin Letch just before half-time gave Royston a comfortable 18-0 lead at the interval.

After the break the wind dominated with neither side able to really breakthrough, and handling errors spoiling promising moves.

Exiles got themselves on the board late on with a sharp break down the blind side for their right winger to score unconverted.

With their defence finally breached Royston hit back almost immediately through a quick break from standoff Rob Turner who released Wallace for his second try of the game, converted by Dave Marvell, final score 25-5.

Royston II also got their pre-season underway with a hard fought 19-19 draw against Harrow at home.

Royston are back in action this coming Saturday with the first team hosting Watford and the seconds travelling to Potton.

The club welcomes new players, with training place on Tuesday and |Thursday nights at 7pm.

Anyone interested should contact Lloyd Mullenger on 01763 246900.