Tribute Somerset 2 North

Weston Athletic 10 Gordano 2ndXV 17

Despite fielding a very strong side on paper the Athletic were unable to develop any consistent pattern of play in a scrappy close encounter at the recreation ground against old rivals Gordano.

Weston's usually reliable scrum platform faltered and possession was hard won and usually on the back foot. Nevertheless it was Weston who opened the scoring after excellent work by the forwards put McGrath away on the left wing.

The ball was recycled and the forwards took it on again well into the Gordano 22 when Burns spotted a flat defence and neatly chipped the ball for Prime to race through and touch down.

This was Weston's best chance with possession frequently turned over by Gordano and Weston giving away penalties when they were in good positions. A rapid breakaway by the Gordano fly half brought a try when the ball carrier off loaded in the tackle to his supporting centre. The try was converted and Gordano took a lead they were never to lose.

A further penalty, slotted by the stylish Gordano fly half took the visitors to a 10 -5 half time lead.

Weston were unable to take full advantage of the elements in the second half as Gordano kept up the pressure and Weston continued to give away needless penalties. Gordano extended their lead with another breakaway try mid way through the second half.

At last Weston woke up and developed some pressure of their own. The forwards, who had struggled in tight play were now working well in the loose and their efforts were rewarded when Cradock got the touch down following a series of driving mauls.

Despite Weston's best passage of play the Gordano defence held on and they ran out narrow winners by 10-17 and the home side had to be content with a losing bonus point. Despite this third loss from eleven starts the Athletic end the first half of the season in second place in Somerset 2 North.