The home side were able to field 17 players for the game (including a couple of lads from Crocs 2s who had a free weekend), which was some feat considering the number of unavailabilities throughout the club for the opening week of the season.

Castleford, who arrived with 13 players, also had to bring in a couple of players from neighbouring Halifax to ensure they were able to start with a full XV - with this actually being the best result of the day, as 32 lads were able to play this amazing sport of ours.

James Wainwright, the development coach at Crocs, scored twice, former skipper Dave French capped an impressive display with a try, while Aaron Horner also scooted over. Ben Simms added two conversions.

Castleford had opened the scoring before French cut the deficit to 7-5. Wainwright then crossed twice in quick succession, Simms converting the second, to give the hosts a 17-7 lead at the break.

The visitors got their second converted try after the interval, however the Vandals were rewarded for their impressive play with a try through Horner. Simms converting to seal the win.