Interestingly, before the game, Cov led The Champ with more offloads than any other team in the league this season. They seem to have adapted better than most to the recent law changes regarding the lowering of the tackle, which now make offloads less risky than before, as noted by Shaun Edwards in today's The Rugby Paper. But that is true of the opposition, too, which is perhaps one reason why we're seeing more tries scored this season.

In the end, Cov proved far too strong for a battling Doncaster side that worked hard all afternoon and just about deserved their bonus point for scoring four tries. They were actually flattered a little, however, by the scoreline and had it not been for an uncharacteristically poor day off the tee from Tommy Mathews, the extra ten points from missed conversions might have been a truer reflection of the gulf in the end between the two sides.

Those on the Cov side under the lights on Friday might encounter players with greater talent and potential skill this season, but I doubt they'll face a more intense physical battle. The Army showed no mercy for the youth or smaller size of their opponents. They were fierce in their tackles, relentless in the scrum, and, as anticipated, offered no concessions whatsoever...

When the final whistle sounded, the sun had emerged, bringing a sense of Spring with it. From the elevated pitch, one could see a few fruit trees in bloom, adding a burst of color to an otherwise drab landscape. A metaphor for new beginnings perhaps, of hope for the future? As far as Cov is concerned, the shoots are already there for all to see.