BOLTON Mets began life at their new stadium with a 10-10 stalemate against Ashton Bears A on Saturday.

After their switch from winter to summer rugby last year, 2013 has signalled the start of a new era in the 18-year history of the club after moving to Avenue Street.

Chairman Stuart Cooke said playing at the home of Bolton Rugby Union Club was everything they hoped it would be.

He said: “The facilities were fantastic, we’ve got a new kit and a number of sponsors. We also had too many players on Saturday, but those who we couldn’t give a game to stayed and cheered us on, which was great.”

While Mets, who have played at New House Farm for the last 12 years, hoped to begin life at their new home with a victory, the result was still impressive against a side who finished fifth last season.

They got off to a bad start when they were reduced to 12 men in the first minute after hooker Adam Ryan was sin-binned. That did not stop them from breaking the deadlock when Ryan Terry scored a try.

Pierce Sherrington converted to make it 6-0, and it was stalemate until just before half time when a lack of concentration allowed Ashton to make it 6-4.

Matt Gladwin touched down to make it 10-4 after the break, but when they started to tire Ashton hit back to level.

“Though we wanted to start with a win, we’re happy with a draw,” said Cooke.