Bell believes Horsham defeat will act as a wake-up call

New signing Simon Gaynor scored on his debut

The promoted Green and Whites were given a harsh introduction to life in the division as they went down 75-29 to Tunbridge Wells - who are fancied for promotion this year.

Bell believes his side will learn from it and bounce back. He said: “We started well but we did not read situations and they executed a simple game plan very well running at our weak areas.

“At times our line speed was slow, and by not going up together they got in behind us and created some good tries.

“At times I felt we looked flat in the midfield area but Declan (Nwachukwu), Will Bell and Richard Tredgett stood out for their tackling.

“We learned a lesson today. It was the wake-up call we needed and showed we must react quicker. The league will be tough this year and we now know the level that is required.

“We haven’t become a bad side overnight. We will work harder at training this week and you will see a different Horsham next Saturday.”

Horsham face Lewisham based Old Colfeians at home on Saturday for their first home league match of the season with kick-off at 2pm.

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