PETER TARREGA scored a stunning solo try as Bicester began their Southern Counties North campaign with a 14-10 win over Thatcham.

The hosts took the game to their visitors in the early stages, and fly half James Grosvenor sent centre John Behan hurtling over the line.

Grosvenor made no mistake with the conversion for 7-0.

Thatcham then drilled a penalty to the left-hand corner and from the line-out, Tim Apperley plunged across for an unconverted try.

Three minutes later, the visitors made it 10-7 as Liam Rowland sprinted 70 metres to dot down.

Bicester then had a try disallowed for a double movement, before a 20-minute stoppage ensued as Thatcham’s No 8 Mark Smith was taken to hospital with a dislocated ankle.

In the second half, lock Andrew Faulkner was sinbinned for a ruck infringement, but Bicester were undeterred.

Winger Tarrega intercepted a pass and shook off several tackles to sprint to the posts from 70 metres to score what turned out to be the matchwinning try, which Grosvenor converted.

Wallingford also enjoyed an opening day victory, beating Aylesbury 18-7.

Pete McKinley crossed in the corner after 25 minutes and Wallingford led 10-0 at half-time as Conner Murphy finished well under pressure after a catch and drive.

Despite Aylesbury edging possession, Tom Swainston’s penalty helped the visitors extend their lead.

And James Springer then picked off a pass and sprinted to the try line for 18-0.

Aylesbury finally got on the scoreboard as James Woodfall converted his own try, but Wallingford were not to be denied.