Tribute Somerset 3 South

Wellington 3rdXV 19 Weston Athletic 17

The Athletic once again disappointed on this away fixture repeating the woes of Minehead away two weeks earlier. Despite what on paper appeared a strong squad the Athletic played with key positions being filled by guys out of position and making best efforts.

This being said the Athletic had the opportunity to win this game and secure their position at the top of the table but unfortunately let themselves down with a series of unforced errors by both forwards and backs keeping a determined Wellington in the game to the last.

Receiving kick off Weston were under extreme pressure from Wellington for the first quarter of the game pinned in their half. Athletic remained calm and organised in defence but lacked precision with ball in hand to take the game to Wellington.

This pressure broke with a defending scrum on the 5 meter line which Weston controlled well with 8 Board driving forward and recycling second phase possession.

Quick hands saw the ball to wing, Moig, who completed an individual effort the length of the pitch to score, Leahy failing to collect the extras.

This try was the turning point in the half which saw Weston put the pressure on the Wellington team the back row of Board, Doughty and Bishop provided excellent ball for the backs. Front row stall warts Matthews and Hill (c) both driving close to the line.

Wellington's defence was broken with fourth phase ball won by the pack and good hands from the backs to see Karl Young score out wide for Weston's second try. Weston went into the break 10-0 leaders.

The second half however was a different matter with Weston failing to take the initiative and struggling against a Wellington team who saw this game as thei 'Cup Final'opportunity to beat the top of the table side.

Their efforts were continuous and strong direct ball carrying by the forwards saw their centre released to cross the line for their first score with the extras converted.

Weston did not to react to this pressure and Wellington came back to score on the opposite wing to take the lead 12-10.

Weston still failing to take their opportunities were making to many unforced errors however, did reclaim the lead with a superb interception by Williams with the Worle School teacher showing clean heels to score under the posts and retain the Weston lead, Leahy collected the extras on this occasion.

There were moments for the Athletic and although Leahy provided numerous charges and linked with Williams and Ross they could not cross the line and make the game safe. In the closing minutes of the game Wellington gathered and their centre crashed over beneath the posts for his second try and the extras an easy kick to win the game 19-17.