Kidderminster Carolians first team squad warmed up for their 2011-2012 Mids 2 West (S) campaign with a friendly at Marlpool Lane against Willenhall and ran out comfortable 25-3 winners.

With the game split into 4 x 20 minute sessions Head Coach, Bryan Smallman got to see his squad in action. Early concerns over how well the pack would gel were quickly put to bed as the KC's pack met Willenhall's only real power head on. The front row of Suchy, Rigsby (the 2nd)and Nicklin put in a full 80 minutes and never took a backward step against a heavier pack.

In the engine room Tunstall & Small worked well both at set piece and in the loose. In the back row Lloyd-Jones and Ewan had impressive debut's tourmenting the oppositions backrow. They were ably assisted by Wilkinson, Protheroe and Tom Such and the young Lewis. For the first time in years KC's had 4 scrum half’s in James, Lovell, Pinner and Jordan, with only Jordan being unable to feature due to a pulled calf muscle in the warm up. All performed well which will cause Bryan a welcome selection headache.

In the backs Mounter controlled the game from 10 with solid performances from the ever direct running of Evetts, Sollom and Mounter are getting themselves into try scoring positions, Nick Martin showed he still has the ability to take defenders on the outside and new signing Ben Coleman showed he has the credentials for 1st team rugby in the 12 channel. Also a welcome sight was the first competitive game for James Whitehouse after a 2 year lay off with injury.

On a sad note Jake Evetts was taken to hospital after dislocating his elbow during the final minutes when preventing the Willenhall winger from scoring. I am sure you will all join me in wishing Jake a speedy recovery

Overall a good start by the squad which showed dedication and determination, but work is needed on pattern play and execution in the final third which can only be worked on in training. All players from today’s game (bar injuries) are expected at training on Tuesday & Thursday.

Andy Mac