Orrell 20 Portico 33 NEWLY promoted Portico Panthers made an impressive start to the premiership season.

Orrell scored in a very evenly fought first half but they were unable to convert their try. Good work by Portico's pack set up a well manoeuvred try for Dave Leyland to go over for his first.

But 10 minutes from half-time with Orrell scored from a set play from the scrum. Portico replied with a long pass out wide to Neil Kearns who broke the first line of defence. He was tackled 10 metres short, but a quick play-the-ball made the space out wide for Phil Walsh to go over.

Portico started as they finished the first half with an impressive 50-metre solo effort from Mike Hobin to put them in the lead. He converted his own try. Strong running from Orrell's pack sent them over for a converted try.

A barnstorming run from Phil Walsh saw him break tackle after tackle, draw in the full-back, and pass inside to Dave Leyland who scored under the posts. Mike Hobin converted.

Elementary mistakes by Portico let Orrell back into the game. Orrell's winger scored in the corner, which was converted. Mike Hobin slotted over a drop goal to give Portico the edge.

With 15 minutes to go Portico's strength shone through with Dave Lee chasing his own kick through only to be tackled without the ball, the referee gave a penalty try, converted by Mike Hobin. Good strong running by Portico's pack and swift handling by the half-backs sent Mike Hobin in for his second try, which he converted.