Five wins from five outings have put Imperial in pole position in Somerset One and forced player-coach Dean Payne to rethink his goals for the season.

His side's latest success, a 43-10 home triumph over Bristol Barbarians, kept Imperial ahead of Gordano on points difference and two points clear of Wiveliscombe, who have played one game less.

"It's very early days and much rugby remains to be played but confidence and expectations are soaring", said Payne whose rugby career began with the club as a colt before he enjoyed spells playing for Gloucester Under-21s, Bristol Harlequins and Barton Hill.

"Our initial target was to push for third or fourth place but, after the start we've had, we're chasing a top-two spot," he added.

"We're not taking anything for granted and need to keep our feet on the ground, as there are no foregone conclusions in this league.

"To be honest, the club were lucky not to go down last year, while we haven't had much to shout about for the last five years or so.

"But there's great potential here, a good atmosphere and absolutely cracking facilities."

Payne's first priority in pre-season was to spend time on defence and fitness. He said: "We had the tractor tyres out and worked the boys pretty hard, and then had a look at defending.

"You can't go out and try to win a league title without a tight defence – we're not the Brazil football team. The boys have really responded, but at the same time it's not too serious, this isn't a league where people are paid to play – we try to make it enjoyable and have a laugh."

Payne's brother Ben and two more old boys, in the shape of the Hickery brothers – Ross and James, also arrived during the summer from Bristol Harlequins, while Andy McCormack (Chew Valley) was another boost to the squad.

Payne said: "For the first time in 10 seasons there's real competition for places and a selection headache.

"Luke Francombe came into the side for the Barbarians game and marked his debut with a try, and he's only 21 – that shows how things have changed here."