AFTER spending the first three weeks of the season kicking their heels due to fixture cancellations, Recs finally got underway with a workmanlike victory.

Understandably there were signs of rustiness, but ultimately class told, with a hat-trick from Mark Ashton and encouraging displays from Pilks’ emerging young guns the highlights.

Ashton’s first two tries came  in the opening half, one following a break by hooker Peter Cahalin and the second from close-range after a short Ste Rawsthorne offload. Both were goaled by Barry Pope.

But Recs’ first half smacked of lethargy and their 12-6 advantage was wiped out in ten minutes before the break as the aggressive Cuthberts pack took charge.

Two swift tries left Recs down by four, but there was far more purpose, pace and width in their second half display, which brought rewards.

Smart work by teenage half back Danny Lynch, making his debut from the bench, paved the way for Danny Davies to level matters.

Then John Rees was sent through by a short Ashton pass, for a try goaled by Rawsthorne.

Next, Cahalin sneaked one from acting half, then Ryan Rogers scored after intercepting on half way.

Forward Mark Briody, another youngster on debut, broke clear and sent over Ashton, the C&S Tyres man of the match.

Mark Forber converted the final two tries and, at 16-38, Recs were out a sight, although Cuthberts did cross late on.

Man of the Match: Mark Ashton    

A major plus was the return of strong running second row Danny Mason following a serious shoulder injury. The youngster was Recs players’ Commhoist MOM.