The sides responded by delivering a pulsating clash, after a somewhat slow start.

And it was Pirates who finished the stronger, coming home like a steam train to overrun the home side at the death.

Inside centre Blair Maloney - back at Pirates after playing rugby league for several years - was the hero: he sliced through the defence to score the match-winner.

"About all I did all game, but it was all right," Maloney said.

The idyllic weather was a welcome respite from last week's sustained deluge - and, consequently, a joyous atmosphere rippled around the ground.

People came from far and wide for the encounter, including UK-based loved ones of the Red Devils' new English import, talented No. 10 Leo Mortimer.

Mortimer, who arrived in the country last month, said: "It's the first time I haven't had any exams.

"So I thought I'd take the chance to come out here and play on nice sunny days like this."

Mortimer studied international finance and banking back home.