Lamb is pleased with display

PLYMOUTH Albion welcomed Exeter Chiefs Under-23s to Brickfields in front of 1,153 fans on Saturday for one of the most anticipated preseason fixtures in years.

- By PAUL NICHOLSON

With the sun shining and a vibrant atmosphere building, supporters were treated to a fast-paced contest that finished in dramatic fashion with Chiefs snatching a narrow 43-41 win.

Albion head coach Ryan Lamb named a strong side for the clash, acknowledging before kickoff, saying: "This will be a tough game and a real test for the boys, Chiefs have real quality."

The excitement was clear from the moment gates opened at midday. Hundreds enjoyed the match-day experience, with the STORMFORCE Marquee hospitality in full swing for the first time this season. Among the guests were Exeter Chiefs director of rugby Rob Baxter and Albion managing director Max Venables, highlighting the importance of the occasion for both clubs.

Albion co-captain Jack Oulton also spoke before the game, saying: "We've been working on the mistakes from last week and looking ahead to today's fixture.

"They are a young team, they will move well and be a quick team. This should be a good test."