EASTERN RHINOS recovered from 8-0 down to beat LONDON CHARGERS 16-8 in a match played seven days before the official start of the campaign.
The Chargers looked well set when Caleb Adetona and Isaac Greene crossed in the first 13 minutes, but the Rhinos were back in the contest by the break, Adam Cook scoring on the half-hour and Chris Kerkow adding the extras.
Kerkow levelled matters with a penalty-goal on 53 minutes, and Daniel Harding popped over in the next set. Waisea Volavola sealed victory with 15 minutes left, completing a one-two with Zeph Tamini.
The season launches on Saturday with three intriguing fixtures.
Reigning champions Hammersmith Hills Hoists travel to the Chargers, while last year’s Grand Final runners-up Wests Warriors entertain the Rhinos.
Brentwood Eels host North Herts Crusaders in the remaining game, with Bedford Tigers and Bristol All Golds sitting out the opening day.
An A Division match has been arranged between the second teams of London Chargers and Hammersmith Hills Hoists. Member clubs of the SCL have been invited to arrange such fixtures this year, on an ad-hoc basis.
