After conceding an early try at Jarrah Oval on Saturday, the Bulls defence shone in the 44-5 win.

It was one of the more pleasing aspects for coach Morgan Grivas.

"I was really happy with the defensive effort," Grivas said.

"We probably benefited from Albury making a few more handling errors than what we are going to see as the season progresses, but the side did a good job when they needed to and when Albury got into our 22 to force the error and turn it around."

Despite an early try Steamers winger Sam Seton, the Bulls soon took the ascendancy.

They led 25-5 at half-time before carrying on with the job in the second half.

After plenty of personnel changes over the off-season, including a brand new front row and a new playmaker Grivas was relieved to start off with a win.

"We've had a good pre-season but have struggled to get the full squad together over the last two weeks," Grivas said.

"I felt we were probably a week away from really being ready for the season so it was good to be able to sneak a win in."

Steve Gill impressed at under 10 after moving down from Brisbane for work, while Harrison Friswell soon adapted to being pushed out into the centres.

Jack Hassett and Jon Carmody were also strong in the forwards.

It sets up a good clash with Wagga City next week while Albury tackles Waratahs.

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