Seaton Rangers have hit the ground running under new coach Matthew Tunstall with victory in the opening round of the BARLA National Cup.

Tunstall took over the coaching reins this season after sharing the duties alongside Marc Taylor last term.

But with Taylor standing down due to work and family commitments at the end of last season, the club were looking to someone to take them forward.

Seaton rugby secretary, Peter Gilmour, admitted Tunstall, a former Workington Town forward, was the natural choice.

“The last two seasons have seen Tunstall and Taylor do a fantastic job with the team so when Marc couldn’t continue in the role it was a no-brainer to give the job to Tutty," said Gilmour.

"He is an excellent coach who commands the respect of all of the players.

"Winning the Cumberland cup last season showed how far our young players have progressed and were looking forward to that continuing in the season ahead.

"We've entered the BARLA National Cup to help us hit the ground running for our league campaign and to test ourselves against some tough opposition from other parts of the country."

Tunstall, who also took to the field last season, as well as coaching, will be assisted by John Banks for the 2018 campaign.

Gilmour added: "We believe in Tutty and John Banks we have an excellent coaching team who will continue our progression."

Tunstall's first game in charge was last Saturday when Seaton entertained Wigan side Orrell St James A in the National Cup.

It was a tough opening 40 minutes with the game remaining scoreless at the half time interval.

But, into the second half and Seaton stepped up a gear to move into the next round, courtesy of a 16-6 scoreline.

Man-of-the-match Jordan O'Leary crossed for a try for Seaton, as did Jordan Pritt and Mark Surtees. The scoring was finished with a conversion and a penalty from the boot of Mark Walker.

Ellenborough Rangers, Glasson Rangers and Hensingham are also entered into the competition.

Ellenborough will host Wigan St Cuthberts while Hensingham welcome West Hull, both ties to be played this coming Saturday. Glasson have a bye in the first round.