BRIDGWATER and Albion captain Olly Dunn praised the discipline of his side after they battled to a 26-12 derby victory over North Petherton on the opening day of the new season, writes Simon Freeman.

Albion outscored their fierce rivals by three tries to one, with scores from James Brakes, Rob Thompson and a penalty try while Chris Ashwin kicked 11 points.

Jon Gallagher crossed for Pethy’s only score of the afternoon and Harry Roberts kicked two penalties and a conversion in front of another bumper crowd at Beggars Brook.

Dunn said: “It was a typical derby game, fiercely competitive.

“Defences were firm and there were plenty of big collisions - ultimately it came down to discipline and we capitalised on the Pethy penalties.

“I was pleased we kept the scoreboard moving enough to come out on top.”

North Petherton captain Damian Griffin admitted nerves had got the better of his side and they were made to pay for a high penalty count.

He said: “Nerves got the better of us but we started the game well playing to the new style which we have been working on in pre-season.

“I was pleased with the first half but we were unable to keep the tempo.

“We got sloppy and this resulted in us giving away penalties.

“We have two weeks to put it right before our next game.

“Well done to Bridgwater who played a smart game.”