Head coach David Hayle writes: ‘Covid pressed a real ‘pause’ button in the group’s development as not only was their first NLD competition cancelled and the first Tigers Development Player Pathway abandoned, but they also missed out on the next stages of the Age Grade development.

‘So after being couped up for so long, they were like greyhounds out of the trap when the restrictions eased. The lads benefit from a strong qualified coaching and support team led by myself, forwards coach Iain Tooley together with the backs coaches: Charlie Paley and ex 1st XV centre Dan Harrison. These are supported by, Guy Beales, Andy Cameron, Jago Ridout and Will Syme.

‘Lorna Swain is the Team (and lost kit!) Manager while Neil Allen has the arduous task of sorting out the many fixtures we need! We are also very lucky that Richard Baker from Worksop College has made himself available to officiate on the pitch when needed.

‘Blessed with a very fit and strong squad, we try to play a fast-paced game, kept simple by doing the basics well. By regularly having 30+ at training, we are in the incredibly fortunate position to have the numbers to run 15v15 competitive sessions, during which the boys work extremely hard.

‘Their work has been rewarded with an unbeaten start to the season, claiming some fantastic scalps along the way, but the squad is not resting on its laurels as we have big tests coming up.

‘Last Sunday, one team hosted Market Rasen with the other travelled to Boston – both teams were mixed ability, and both ran out convincing winners.’