Sat 21 Nov 2015
Tribute Somerset 2 North
Weston Athletic 25 Old Bristolians 2ndXV 33
Athletic began the game with energy and drive and looked as though they might cause Old Bristolians some but the visitors weathered the storm and their well organised and well drilled pack were soon on the attack and they opened the scoring with an unconverted try.
Old Bristolians continued to dominate but despite determined defence from the Athletic Old Bs extended their lead with a second try.
Athletic battled their way back into the game. After good work by forwards and backs skipper Dan Prime scored a well taken try. Further good work took Weston into the visitors 22 were they set up a good forward drive and Searle got a try as a result.
Further pressure brought a penalty for Weston slotted by Prime. A golden opportunity to cement a 10 point lead was missed when Stuart's interception and sprint to the line ended short when he appeared to have been shot by a sniper and fell over just 5 metres short.
Without this vital score the Athletic turned round with a narrow 13-12 half time lead but facing the prospect of playing into the elements.
Following the interval Weston seemed to be about to take control but Old abs broke out and scored a converted try. Weston came back almost immediately following good work by the forwards and a neat chip and chase Prime scored his second try.
Old Bs attacked and their centre sliced through Weston's defence to score near the posts. The conversion gave them an 8 point lead but this was cut again as the Athletic ran the ball from deep in their own 22.
Excellent work from Josh Wheeler, McCarthy put Ben Wheeler away and he scored under the posts. Prime converted and with jus minutes remaining the sides were separated by a single point.
Right at the death Old Bs scored a try in the corner which was hotly disputed as the scorer appeared to have been bundled into touch before touching down. Weston were denied a losing bonus by an excellent conversion from the touchline.
Athletic should have won this game but can console themselves with coming very close to the best side they have played this season. They remain in second place in Somerset 2 North
