AN exciting and open game of rugby saw Diss Saracens lose 34-26 to Holt 1sts in the Harrison Cup.

Nine tries were scored in front of a large crowd at Mackenders in what was a fitting way to christen the new clubhouse.

After an extended pre-match speech by new skipper William Foote, the new-look Saracens team made a lethargic start and conceded a try in the opening minutes.

But from the restart, Diss broke out through fly-half Seb Goodge and an excellent off-load out of the tackle created space for Goodman to score under the posts, Chris Beaird adding the conversion for 7-7.

Holt’s forwards began to dominate their opponents and two tries and a penalty duly followed for the visitors who took a commanding 20-7 on the half-hour mark.

Diss fought back with Goodge putting in an exquisite chip over the defence for the dangerous Josh Ludkin to gather and score another converted try.

With the scores at 20-14 to Holt at the break, the visitors strengthened their lead with two breakaway tries – in between Paul Cayley going over from close range – which put the game beyond their hosts.

The Diss squad showed the benefit of a gruelling pre-season campaign by finishing the stronger and debutant Tom Harrison scored the game’s final try in the corner.

Although a loss, Diss put in a decent performance against the newly-promoted London league team.