In torrential conditions, Crusaders Colts earned a dramatic 9-8 win at Gateshead Storm thanks to a 77th minute drop goal from debutant Paul Emmanuelli who, along with fellow debutant Graham Hughes, was also due to turn out for Wales A against Ireland in Porthcawl the next day.

The duo opted to play two games in a weekend as the Colts were hit by injuries and unavailabilities due to having a number of players in the Welsh Students side.

Storm were keen to show a massive improvement on last week