THE first rugby match of the new season at Mount House, against Shebbear, gave the opportunity for some new faces to make their first team debuts, and for others to make their mark.

The opening stages were competitive, with both teams controlling possession well, until Joe Beck scored a trademark try and give Mount House an early lead.

Shebbear then turned loose their own secret weapon — quick, big and strong — who ripped through some willing but unsuccessful tackles and scored four tries to leave Mount House trailing.

Under the inspiring leadership of captain Jack Sharp, Mount House hit back with a second from Joe Beck and further scores by Bertie Hughes and Ludo de Falbe to level the scores at 24-24.

Shebbear then took control again, and pulled away with a further three tries. A late score by Hunter Strand closed the gap before Shebbear replied with two more, to win comfortably by 55 points to 31.