Launceston 25, Otley 15

Howard Parr’s anticipated return for this game never materialised after the influential Otley second-rower was injured in a road accident.

The RAF squadron leader has a badly-bruised ankle after reportedly being involved in a collision with a car while out on a training run.

First-team manager Marc Lawrence said: “We believe there were no fatalities but someone may have suffered a broken leg. We hope Howard will not be out for too long.”

Parr, who was supposed to be skipper this season, has been unable to play for Otley due to work commitments but was hoping to play in his first game of the campaign at Launceston after changes to his schedule.

Despite the blow, Otley made a bright start that saw them go ahead straight from the kick-off.

Full back Christian Georgiou came into the line, where his languid style completely out-foxed the defence and he strolled through for a try which he was unable to convert.

Suitably stunned, Launces-ton struck back through their forwards. No 8 Mike Rawlings finished off an assault on the Otley line, with centre Mal Roberts adding the conversion to take the lead.

Minutes later, he put in a fine kick to the corner for full back Richard Bright to win the chase to touch down.

Keeping their shape, Otley secured a turnover, quickly shipping the ball to winger James Twomey, who left the cover for dead to score a spectacular try.

Georgiou converted but re-placement Jake Murphy secured a 15-12 half-time lead for the hosts with a penalty.

The All Blacks came out strongly after the break and Otley were forced on the defensive, contriving to pick up yellow cards for skipper Jamie Sutton and Georgiou.

They were made to pay when Murphy added a second penalty and centre Ryan Westren went over for a try which Murphy converted.

Ben Hough eased the situation with a penalty and – now back to full strength – Otley began to make the running.

However, although they had Launceston on the skids, they were unable to make the pressure pay.