The Warriors therefore staged an exhibition match, managing on a Monday afternoon to raise two full sides plus subs. Well refereed, the conference attendees were treated to a fine game of rugby.

There were personal battles across the pitch: John Horwood and Darren Pollitt fighting for line out dominance, two back rows in a war of attrition and out in the backs it was about illusive running and making space. With both sides playing in the Warriors traditions of moving the ball all players saw plenty of action and it was no surprise that the wings dominated the scoring.

They didn’t get the first word, Blues flanker Ronan Lewis crashing over after a series of rucks on the Reds line but after that it was all the flyers. Impressive debutant Josh Harper evened things out with a fine try for the Reds but his slick running was overshadowed by Ryan Morgan who scorched over with a trademark mazy run from half way, splitting the reds defence with pace and a step that would have graced any rugby field. 10-5 to the Blues, it took the Reds a lot of effort but they dominated territory mid-way through the second half and Youssef El Tawab was squeezed in at the corner. Neither Simon Jenkins (Blues) nor Rhydian Williams (Reds) could quite find their range with the wide conversions and so the last quarter saw the game evenly balanced at 10 all.

Both sides had some final opportunities but defences held firm. Will Brown and Richard Evans got through a lot of work whilst Neil Price looks a promising talent. A draw was the only fitting result and honour was upheld for all whilst the spectators were left with only a positive image for people with learning difficulties. Eric Horridge (Blues) and Luke Jenkins (Reds) were named as Man of the Match.
Having won their last three matches the Warriors will be looking for strong performances against Betws, Gwlad and England’s only integrated team – the Bumble Barbarians from Bradford as their complete their 6 Nation’s period games.

Blues: Tony Whittaker, Ryan Morgan, Dean Gilasbey, Lee Rowlands, Mike Esney, Robert Lewis, Chris Edmunds, Colin Talcon, Eric Horridge (Cpt), Will Brown, Darren Pollitt, Chris Hancock, Mike Seignot, Mark Lewis, Simon Jenkins, Ronan Lewis

Reds: Alun Stephens, Josh Harper, Gareth Ladd, Luke Jenkins, Youssef El Tawab, Jamie Evans, Gwilym Lewis, Gareth McKibbon, Mike James, Richard Evans (Cpt), John Horwood, Jonathan Yeoman, Richard Taylor, Rhydian Williams (Wayne Mentor), Paul Rees