HARROGATE began the new season full of hope against Esher at Claro Road after five wins in six had staved off relegation from National Two.

But indiscipline and conceding too much possession cost them dear in a 14-13 defeat. Harrogate's try-scorer was Matt Duncombe with the rest of the points kicked by Mark Chester

Updated: 10:40 Monday, September 05, 2005