With Ross 2nds opponents, Smiths, unable to raise a side, they took a friendly fixture away to higher graded Norton.

Ross started slowly and Norton got themselves two scores up within 20 minutes. Ross were not at the races, and their opposition cut through a non-existent defence to go over both times under the posts, which they duly converted.

Centre, TC Leach got Ross going after a series of pick and drives from the pack put TC in sight of the touch line and he crashed over. Norton responded with a try just before the half time whistle, leaving them 21-5 up.

Ross re-grouped at the interval and came out a completely different side. Playing down the slope, they gained momentum in the scrums and were able to secure quality ball for the first time in the match. A superb angle from centre Mark Lewis saw him go over and Craig Powell was able to score.

Ross’ defence was getting far better with some crunching tackling, one in particular from Mark Lewis and flanker, Pete Jarvis was everywhere on the pitch putting in some big hits.

Norton were still able to keep Ross out of reach and scored again wide out but winger Rich Johnson was able to score in the corner for Ross at the death leaving the scores 38-17 to the hosts.

The Ross team played well, and the Drop Inn man of the match was awarded to Pete Jarvis.