Southern Districts pulled off probably the surprise result of the first round when they motored home to beat fancied Eastwood 34-15 on Saturday.

The Woods are considered to be one of the front runners for the premiership but in a knock ‘em down drag ‘em out encounter were overwhelmed late in this game.

Two yellow cards (rugby league recruit Tim Simona and Chris Bell) didn’t help the Eastwood cause but they managed to stay in touch and the score at half time had the Rebels ahead 14-12.

But the second half was a different kettle of fish and Souths were able to out enthuse the visitors at Forshaw who were honoured to have the Prime Minister and local Federal member Scott Morrison kick off.