Kingston head coach Matt Hawke believes his men are starting to enjoy the fruits of their hard labour after securing a first win of the new Surrey Division One campaign.

Tries from Aidan Hamilton and Charlie Kelly – plus two Bobby McEvoy penalties – landed a 16-8 win over league new boys and near neighbours Old Emanuel on Saturday.

It erased the memory of their opening day defeat at Old Whitgiftians and Hawke, who took charge in the summer, reckons there is plenty to be cheerful about.

“The team has spent 16 weeks working really hard to develop a good skill set that has been missing for some time,” he said.

“After a great pre-season, last week’s disappointing loss at Old Whits did not reflect the hard work the guys had been putting in.

“After a rather stern training week the players got down to business and pulled off a great win.

“Playing some of the brand of rugby we are trying to develop, we took our time, got our phases going and came out on top.

“It takes time to gel and put new players in there, but it seems to be coming along nicely.

“We have our targets, we know what we need to do and hopefully this will be a successful season for the club.”

Kingston head to Old Cranleighans this weekend.