With a host of last year's squad unavailable due to holidays, cricket and other commitments the Dee Coaching Staff took the opportunity to blood many new faces at this level against an Academy squad boasting two full sides plus extras. Academy dominated the first period and took advantage of Donaghadee's unfamiliarity with each other to go into an early two try lead. Stout defence from the home side kept Academy at bay and the Dee began to build a little confidence in the second and third periods scoring a couple of well crafted tries before the visitors struck back against the Dee's small squad who were visibly tiring by this point.

Many thanks are due to Academy for travelling and providing telling opposition in a number of sessions which will have proved useful for both Clubs. From the Dee's perspective a number of new players showed their mettle and, once they gelled, the side demonstrated their capabilities. Thanks also to the huge Academy contingent who stayed afterwards and enjoyed a few post game scoops in the Clubhouse.

Next week the Dee welcome Bangor II to Donaldson Park for the Rodney Gray Cup.