KENT Exiles kicked off the new campaign with a scrappy 20-12 victory over old foes Essex Spartans.

In doing so, they also won the inaugural Battle for the Bridge trophy.

Exiles head coach Tony Bainbridge had some strong words for his players afterwards.

He said: “We came out fast and had the game under control, but then we got sloppy, giving away far too many penalties which could have changed the game.

“We need to execute better, learn to focus on our jobs and the man in front of us if we want to carry on winning.”

Kent Exiles face Colchester Gladiators on Sunday at 2.30pm.

For more information on the club, visit kentexiles.co.uk

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