MINEHEAD Barbarians were beaten 66-3 away by Burnham on Sea in their opening match of the season in Counties Two Somerset.

It was a tough return to league rugby for the Barbarians against a side who have come into the division from a higher level. And at times that experience showed against a Barbarians’ team missing a number of first choice players.

However, despite a disappointing scoreline, the Barbarians showed great effort and commitment to their cause. Roberts and Swann brought solidity to the front row, Willes was paired with debutant Declan Hurley in the second row, with another first-timer Josh Ruddenklau taking a place alongside Nunn and Parfitt in the back row.

At half-back Cook and Waterman showed that they have not lost their skills, while acting skipper Senior worked hard to bring stability and organisation to the back-line.

Minehead provided determined defence and managed to contain the attacks for the first few phases, but then struggled to hold out against the power of the Burnham outside backs.

Minehead got onto the scoreboard with a penalty kick from Parfitt, following a dangerous tackle on Senior. The points were well-deserved for the hard work done by the team in defence, and then managing to breakout into attacks.

Meanwhile, Minehead now look forward to their first home game on Saturday, September 13, when Bath side Avon are the visitors. Team selection may be interesting in the coming weeks, with a few more players becoming available, and the 2nd XV having impressed in their 43-5 home victory over Yeovil in Counties Four Somerset South.

One big positive for Minehead is the arrival of head coach Isaiah Graham-Hooper from Taranaki, New Zealand, who is keen to get to work with all the players. Everyone at Minehead welcomes Isaiah and we are sure he will soon have a positive affect across the whole club.