GROVE head coach Graham Stickler was pleased with his young side's resilience in their 14-13 Southern Counties North victory at Olney.

But he expects an improved showing against Tadley at Cane Lane on Saturday.

Stickler said: "We had a number of games last season which we lost by a single score late on, so it's nice to be on the other side.

"I can sympathise with how Olney must feel. However there are many positives for us to take from the win.

"We had a really young team, with six of last season's colts playing, and they showed great determination and maturity in a very hostile environment.

"Our defence was just excellent and we can really build on that moving forward.

"As we talked about afterwards that's what kept us in the game, and while we were within one score we always had a chance with the talent we have in our backs.

"We know we must be a little more patient and eliminate the silly mistakes, and we'll work hard at that now in training.

"But it's a long season ahead and we're happy with that start."