Old Wimbledonians started the new season with a narrow victory over last season’s promotion chasers.

There wasn’t a try in the 80 minutes although the OWs defence was put under extreme pressure in the final 15 minutes and needed some good fortune to survive.

Three new recruits made their league debut for OWs, Craig Starling coming into the second row, with James Hodge introduced at stand-off and Gary Rosewarne at centre.

Each made a powerful contribution to the team effort and will have an important part to play throughout the season.

Hodge in particular settled in well scoring all the points with a secure kicking style which landed three penalties, the first of which was from 50 yards.

OWs’ lineout performed well and stole a couple of the opposition throws.

However, the old scrummaging faults appeared once more and at times Frankie D'Souza on the tight-head side found it difficult to control the visiting loose-head prop and skipper.

The back row combined well although Tom Jepps had to be replaced following a nasty elbow injury. The returning Steve Duggan was always to the fore and put in some impressive hits.

The game in general was scrappy and neither side was able to exert mistake-free pressure.

Many penalties were conceded by both sides and the game rarely provided any continuity.

Frustration crept in and each side had a player sin-binned for repeated infringement on the ground.

However , as the game wore on the Old Boys defence was solid and despite a few scary moments was not found wanting.

Despite their victory, Old Wimbledonians must tighten up all aspects of their play at Old Alleynians this Saturday.