COVENTRY Rugby began pre-season with a 33-21 victory against Leicester Lions as the hosts fielded almost entirely different squads in either half.
Theo Mannion starred for the home side with a try and three conversions as Tobi Wilson, Ryan Hutler, Will Rigg and David Opoku all crossed for tries at Butts Park Arena.
National One opponents Leicester proved more than a match for Coventry in the first half before a strong second half performance from Alex Rae’s side sealed a comfortable win.
The visitors took an early lead through prop Aaron Dawson’s close range try as former Coventry fly half Dan Lewis added the extras.
However, Coventry were soon level as full back Wilson crossed for the home side’s first try following an excellent break from prop Ollie Andrews with Evan Mitchell converting.
The teams went into the break all square before Coventry’s debutant winger Hutler finished well just three minutes after the interval with Mannion adding the extras.
And Coventry extended their lead when Rigg powered his way to the line with Mannion again on hand to kick the conversion.
Coventry then lost Tiki Nayalo to the sin bin as Leicester made the most of the man advantage with captain Tom Williams scoring his side’s second try with Lewis converting.
And the Lions drew level just past the hour mark as James Stubbs raced in from 50-metres out before Lewis added the extras.
However, Coventry restored their lead when academy winger Opoku dove over in the corner before Mannion completed the scoring with a try of his own which he also converted.
Coventry are next in action against Birmingham Moseley on Friday, August 25 with kick-off at 7.45pm at Billesley Common.
