Playing on the 3G pitch at Odd Down proved a bonus for Avon’s speedy backs as the fast surface and wide open spaces encouraged an expansive game. This resulted in 13 tries for Avon, many involving long range free-flowing handling movements.

Culverhay played their part in an entertaining match, never giving up tackling and competing despite the adversity and showed great team spirit throughout.

Avon’s main beneficiary was Glen Atherton with 5 tries through a dynamic performance in midfield. New youngsters, Jessie Daybell with 2 tries from flyhalf and Wilf Nokes with another after a scorching 70 metre run down the touchline, both shone in attack and demonstrated huge potential.

Leading handsomely at the interval, Avon offered to swap a number of players with their opponents in accordance with the spirit of the Merit Table but Culverhay proudly decided to retain their own team. In fact they enjoyed their best spells during a more competitive second half performance and were only denied a couple of deserved scores by the excellent visitors defence.

Eventually the effort told as Avon added further tries from Zak Holbrook, Tom Pawley, Jordan Wing and Ben Hurd in a resounding 77 nil victory.

Memorably, the match also saw Avon start with 2 former scrum halves, Neil Keen and Adam Stone, playing as props whilst winger Dan Mutlow appeared as hooker to celebrate his 33rd birthday. Club Chairman Ian Monochino-Ayres also put in another whole-hearted stint in the engine room.

Next week Avon 1sts entertain unbeaten league leaders Wiveliscombe in the Somerset Premier whilst their 2nds are also in action at Hicks Field.