DIRECTOR of rugby Nick Bartlett was more than happy with Lydney' s 21-18 defeat at home to Bromsgrove on Saturday.

Josh Hannam scored two tries and Tai Lakabuka another, with Tony Wicks slotting a penalty.

Bartlett said the result was not important.

"We made changes during the game because we thought it was more important to look at different combinations rather than win," he said.

"These games are all about getting us ready for the first league match and I thought a lot of the new boys did exceptionally well.

"Kurt Brown ran himself into the ground for 70 minutes and has a superb work ethic. Tai took his try well and has raw pace. We tried to get him here before but he really enjoyed his time at Bream.

"Ross Webb had a strong game in the centre and so did the front-rows Nick Selway and Leigh Green."

Selway has committed himself to Lydney despite attracting interest from Cinderford.

Jim McMahon has taken over as club captain from Will Jones this season, while winger Charlie Vine is taking time out from rugby. Bartlett said: "We've got an excellent team spirit and Jim led the side well.

"Charlie has given so much to the club for such a long time, he just wants an extended break to spend time with his family. He's not playing at the moment but it's not a closed book. Hopefully in a month or two he'll be back because he's a hard man to replace."

Lee Thomas's continuing injury problems remain a concern, but Stewart Doust performed well in the number nine shirt on Saturday.

Bartlett added: "We've got a new coaching set-up and we're looking to develop a more expansive game this season.

"I thought we missed too many one-on-one tackles on Saturday, but there were plenty of positives."

An injury to a Bromsgrove United player in the preceding second XV clash delayed Lydney's kick-off on Saturday.

An ambulance was called to attend to the stricken player, who complained of numbness in his neck/arm. The ambulance had to come from Stroud to treat the player.

He was later found to have separated the AC joint in his shoulder.

The match was eventually restarted, finishing in a 12-12 draw.

This week, Lydney take on Hereford in a double header at Regentsholme. The second XVs kick-off at 2pm, with the first XV clash following at 3.30pm.