The Somerset Rebels started their season with two matches against the Plymouth Devils.

AFTER last week’s challenge match, the first competitive action of the season at the Oak Tree Arena, saw the Case’s Somerset Rebels host the Plymouth Devils, in a group match of the Premier League Cup.

They stormed to a 59-31 victory, with Brady Kurtz scoring a maximum 15 points in a superb all-round performance to defeat their local rivals. Despite the one-sided looking score, they produced some fantastic action to entertain the Easter crowd.

Kurtz’s performance was backed up by Josh Grajczonek (11+1) and Charles Wright (10+1), with Richie Worrall steadily getting in the grove, and showing some improved form for his 9+2 haul. Paul Starke had a good night, while Leigh Lanham gave a battling performance for little reward.

Brady Kurtz was the understandable choice of meeting sponsors Whitepack Network Services for the rider of the night trophy, which was presented on their behalf by Malcolm Tanner of Automania (Burnham).

In the return match at Plymouth, the Rebels lost 46-43, with Leigh Lanham top scoring with 11+1, backed up by Josh Grajczonek (8+1), Richard Worrall (7) and Paul Starke (6).

While four points from the two matches against Plymouth is a welcome addition to the Rebel pot, it could have been so much better, and they will consider themselves a little unlucky not to take a win here, especially following the mechanical problems suffered by Brady Kurtz and Starke.

On the plus side, Leigh Lanham produced another superb showing to head the Rebels’ scoring, backed up by good contributions from Josh Grajczonek and Richie Worrall.

The Rebels’ next home action will be on Friday, with the visit of Rye House.