CITIES, St George and Chinchilla made away with the points on the opening day of the season in Surat on Saturday.

Despite the persistent rain on the day,  it was the chance for the Under 16s to shine with all the other grades not due to start until next weekend.

All the games were played in Surat so they could double as Redback selection trials and the selectors had plenty of eye-opening performances to choose from.

In the opener Miles had to forfeit due to a lack of players but got together a scratch side to play Cities, the reigning under 16 champions.

The premiers proved too strong and crushed the makeshift Devils side 32-0.

The local Balonne derby between the Red Bulls and St George proved a much closer affair.

The Saints raced into a 14-0 half time lead and appeared to be coasting to victory.

But the Bulls stormed back with two quick tries in the second half to make it a two-point ballgame.

A breakaway St George try was followed by another for the Red Bulls to leave matters 18-16 to the visitors.

It wasn't until the dying minutes that St George made the game safe running out 24-16 winners.

In the final game Chinchilla beat Mitchell.

Mitchell coach John Birkett praised his young side, thanking the 13 players and their parents, who made the trip to Surat.

"The boys played without any reserves against a well drilled side with a full complement of players," Mr Birkett said.
"They can hold their heads up, it's only the first game of the season & their first game together as a unit.

"They played with great heart and they will be better for the run

"Remember it's a long season."