Bath 31, Thurrock 12

NEW-look T-Birds came away with defeat, but a lot of credit from their opening Championship South clash at rainswept Bath on Sunday (27 September).

It's been a summer of reorganisation for T-Birds with new coaching staff and a host of new players so a trip to a stronghold like Bath was full of trepidation.

And it took time for the new look team to start to gel, allowing the hosts the opportunity to build up a 17-0 lead through Jessica Miller's early try and two more touchdowns – courtesy of Maya Uylangco and Catherine Westley – plus a Vicky Foxwell conversion.

Thurrock hit back with a try from Amelie Mason, converted by Emelia Twesigye, but Clea Fawcett went over at the other end and Foxwell adding the extras, to leave Bath 24-7 ahead at half-time.

The sides bagged one try apiece in the second period, Lois Bird crossing for the hosts and Foxwell converting before Thurrock's Tia Tandy touched down on the hour.

You can watch the whole match via this link:

T-Birds have their first home match at Oakfield on Sunday, 11 October when they will host current champions, Richmond.