The Yamba Buccaneers have lost 33-5 to Byron Bay in the second round of the Far North Coast Rugby Union President’s Cup competition played at Yamba Oval on Saturday.

The game was always expected to be tough for the home side given Byron are undefeated since entering the President’s Cup competition and things weren’t looking good for the home side when Byron shot out to a 12-0 lead early in the first half.

But a period of sustained position eased Yamba back into the contest and while they weren’t able to capitalise by scoring any points, they showed Byron they wouldn’t be able to run away with the game.

However, Byron scored a third try late in the first half, which gave them a comfortable lead of 19-0 going into half time.

Yamba came out the stronger of the two sides in the second half and, with Byron repeatedly infringing, were able to get back into the contest when Aaron Ashby scored. But two late tries to Byron rounded out the win.

Buccaneers coach Kris Thomsen said his team had shown great character throughout the match.

“With their two early tries it looked like we would get blown away, but the boys really toughed it out and were in the contest for long periods,” he said.

“We are building every week and if we play like that each week, we will win more than we lose.”

Thomsen said the team were starting to show real promise.

“It’s obvious we’re a new side and we are still building combinations,” he said.

“Once we get a few more games under our belts we will be dangerous and will test most sides in the competition.”

Next up for the Buccs is an away trip to Kyogle on Saturday.