Sunderland buid up continues.

Sunderland hosted Upper Eden at Hillview for the annual friendly between the two clubs; played for the John Drummond trophy, in loving memory of the former player of both clubs who remains sadly missed.

Sunderland edged the first 60 minutes of a tight affair scoring two converted tries.

The first came from an impromptu five a side wrestling match leading to a rather large gap in the middle of Upper Eden's defense which Ben Hutchinson exploited to put Farai Chikimiirikie in for the score.

Sunderlands second was a result of an extended period of pressure in both attack and defense leading to a five meter scrum. Sunderland's pack duly trundled forward leaving Adam Barrass to bundle over from short range.

The final 20 minutes saw Upper Eden come back strongly and (in amongst some close calls for held up over the line) they eventually breached Sunderland's defense twice, once from close range and a second a penalty try for a high tackle on the line. The first try was unconverted meaning a tense last few minutes. In the spirit of the game, the Cumbrians turned down the opportunity for a simple three points to go for a third try which Sunderland managed to see off to reclaim the trophy.

All in all an excellent test for both teams which was required coming into an important season for both clubs.

Sunderland RFC would like to wish Upper Eden all the best for the upcoming season in the league above and look forward to the return fixture next year.