HARWICH and Dovercourt Rugby Club coach Shane Manning has challenged his side to show their class for 80 minutes – rather than 40 – in today's Eastern Counties League opener at Hadleigh.

The Low Road side began their season with what was ultimately a comfortable 71-0 victory against Felixstowe, in the Suffolk Plate quarter-finals on Saturday.

After an unconvincing display in the first period, Harwich stepped up a gear after the interval and showed glimpses of the form that saw them flourish last season.

Now, according to Manning, they must replicate their second-half showing for all 80 minutes.

“The boys looked a bit rusty and were rushing things to start with,” he said.

“They knew they weren’t at their best but really performed in the second half.

“More control, patience and discipline were called for and that’s exactly what the players delivered.

“With more composure and trust in the structure, we put in a really good second 40.

“Just as pleasing was the fact we kept Felixstowe out. Our defence was strong.

“It was an excellent second half of running rugby, with glimpses of the form that helped us only lose two games last season.

"Today will be a huge test, though, so we’ve got to play for 80 minutes and not 40.

“It’ll be a much sterner challenge and we’ll have to play well for the whole game if we’re going to come away with our first win of the season.”