SWINDON St George continued their build-up to the first round of the new season with a comprehensive workout against Surrey Sharks on Saturday.

The home counties side were chosen as pre-season opponents because Dragons' coach Phil Weigh wanted to pit his players against a side two divisions above them and his home side did not disappoint.

Despite going into the break with a 10-point deficit and immediately letting in a six-pointer after the turnaround, they battled their way back into the game, drawing level with just five minutes left on the clock.

Surrey were not to be denied however and a last minute try gave them a 36-32 victory.

Weigh said: "We can take loads of positives and I was delighted how the boys took on board so many of my key coaching points this early into our pre season preparation.''

"We are already at a better standard than last season (when St George reached their first Grand Final) with two weeks still to go and eight or nine players still to come back.

"We looked brilliant at times going forwards but despite some periodically ferocious defending there is room for improvement and I'm sure we will get there by our next game.''

Swindon go to Bath and West Wilts Romans on Saturday, May 9.