Somerset Blackthorn Cup semi-finaal at Bridgwater

Weston-super-Mare 19 Clevedon 14

HOLDERS Weston went through to the final of the Somerset Blackthorn Cup with this narrow victory over Clevedon at Bridgwater.

The Seasiders were penned back in their own territory for much of the first half but they managed to escape in the 16th minute with Paul Sprague's corner try from a stolen line-out.

However, inspired by an outstanding performance by centre Ashley Vailes, Clevedon deservedly led at the interval with No 8 Harvey Russell's try, converted by Steve Johnson.

The standard of goal kicking was not the best with both Johnson and Glenn Dickson failing, but Dickson was on target at last with a 44th minute penalty to give Weston a single point advantage.

The loss of Clevedon skipper John Potts coincided with the arrival from the bench of Steve Donegan and from then on, the Weston scrum gained the required impetus.

On the hour Weston opted for a touchline penalty and George Sparks' line-out catch was taken on by Dan Fry whose inside pass was accepted by Andrew Richards who scored wide out.

Again the try went unconverted but Dickson found some kicking form to increase the lead with his second and third penalties.

Weston were now ahead by 19-7 with five minutes of normal time remaining but Clevedon ended as they had started with fly-half Tom Thie's try at the posts, Johnson converting.

Weston will meet Taunton in the final, the date and venue will be announced shortly.

Weston: N Trevena (M Burns 72, J Arnold, S Bennett, J Mackay, P Sprague, G Dickson, J Conway, D Price, C Withers (D Burge 54), S Williams (S Donegan 56), A Richards, A Glen, D Fry (E Smith 76), G Wright, G Sparks (capt)