SOMERSET were restricted to a two-point home win in their Premier League season opener against Rye House Rockets at the Oak Tree Arena on Friday evening.

With two home defeats at the hands of Rye House last season, the Rebels were always going to have a stiff task against a Rye side that boasted three former Rebels.

Especially as the three in question were former top man and fans favourite, Jason Doyle, Jordan Frampton, whose performance in last season’s Premier Trophy clash was nothing short of stunning, and last year’s early season points machine, Ritchie Hawkins.

Add to these an apparently rejuvenated Chris Neath, and the talented Tyson Nelson, and the Rebels looked to have another tough fight on their hands with their old adversaries.

As many predicted this turned out to be a tight tense affair, with some exciting racing, especially from young Dakota North, whose 10+1 haul earned him the Rider of the Night award from the meeting sponsors, and this seasons Rebels charity partners, The National Autistic Society.

Although not a classic Oak Tree Arena meeting, with the track heavier than the riders would have liked, there was still plenty to keep the crowd on the edge of their seats, and well entertained.

There were some tight side-by-side battles, some audacious passing manoeuvres, ala North and Hawkins, and four superb performances from Gathercole, Hefenbrock, North and Frampton, who all returned double figures, all backed up by solid returns from most of their teams.

If these two sides weather the early season gremlins, then both sets of supporters could be in for exciting times.

The Rebels now move on to an away fixture on Saturday with local rivals, Newport Wasps, in what could prove to be an exciting encounter on the new look Queensway Meadows circuit.

Both sides could be under strength, with Rebels skipper James Holder doubtful, and the Wasps without the recently injured Alex Davies.

When the Rebels return home next week they will have their mettle tested by a visit from the current table toppers, and Premier League new boys, the powerful Ipswich Witches.