On a beautifully sunny day at the Nest, the Hornets faced off against their old rivals, the Old Reds, in what turned out to be an absolute cracker of a match in front of a sizable crowd, writes Jon Richardson.

The Hornets started the game with tremendous energy, and after applying good pressure, prop Sam Scott powered his way over the line for the opening try, which was converted by Charlie Carter.

Winger Josh Sheppard quickly followed suit, rounding his man to score the second try, also converted by Carter, putting the Hornets ahead 14-0.

Carter then added a penalty before the Reds struck back with a try from Kacey Pike, converted by Ash Groves.

However, the Hornets responded emphatically with a try from Connor Baker, who capitalized on a driving line-out after Jake Caulfield had received a red card.

Carter showcased his skill with a try of his own, following a clever crossfield kick from Luke McMullan, which he converted.

In a dramatic turn of events, the Hornets intercepted a Reds attack and launched a counter, resulting in a length-of-the-pitch try by Owen Griffith, also converted by Carter, extending the lead to 38-7 at halftime.

The second half saw the Reds come out strongly, taking advantage of their numerical advantage.

Winger Bentley Halpin scored the first try of the half, converted by Ash Groves.

However, the resilient 14-man Hornets quickly struck back with a try from Josh Sheppard, who stood his man up and finished in the corner.

The Reds weren't done yet, as Finn Murphy scored next, again converted by Groves.

Charlie Carter added a penalty to the Hornets' tally, but the Reds continued their resurgence with tries from Mitch Purcell, converted by Cail Cookland.

The game was becoming too close for comfort for Hornets supporters.

With the score tightening to 46-40 after Harry O'Donnell crossed the line for the Reds, converted by Cookland, the tension in the Nest was palpable.

Ultimately, the Hornets were relieved to hear the final whistle, securing a memorable victory in this thrilling encounter.

Full time score: Hornets 46 - Old Reds 40