1st Team Win, 2nds Draw

Although still denuded of 10 players, they put in a performance full of spirit and commitment to spark some early celebrations. In truth, the score line could have been greater if they had taken all their chances in the first half with the strong wind at their backs, missing 4 penalty chances and a couple of try-scoring opportunities.

After some enterprising close quarter forward charges, Avon opened their account from a 5 metre scrum pushover as young scrum half Alex Gapper pounced to dot down the try. Rob Fitch converted magnificently from the touchline to bring up his 100 points for the season.

With Rhodri Theaker and Chaz Meddick leading by example in the pack, Avon welcomed back Elliott Hayes on the flank after several years absence. Stuart Dilloway was also a threatening presence in the centre with several powerful runs up the middle.

Avon increased their lead with a blind side attack before moving the ball wide to fullback James Leeming who chipped ahead and won the race to touch down their second try. Although they didn't take full advantage of the wind, half time arrived with a 12 nil lead to defend in the second period.

Predictably, Avon tried to keep the ball close with series of short attacks through their pack but, as soon as a breakdown or turnover occurred, Whitehall put in lengthy relieving kicks to force back Avon deep inside their own half.

Avon's defence remained strong apart from one lapse where the visitors moved swift off-the-top line out ball out wide for their left winger to score in the corner. With the margin reduced to 7 points, Whitehall sensed a chance to snatch something from the game but determined Avon tackling repelled their attacks to close out a hard fought but well deserved victory.

Next week, Avon travel to third placed Chew Valley.

Avon 2nds meanwhile played out an entertaining 7-7 draw at Oldfield 3rds. Making light of the unavailabilities due to the horrendous 1st team injury list, they gathered together a collection of young and old Avon players who put in a spirited team performance. Leading the way was 66 year old Chris Coombe who completed the full 80 minutes and was deservedly named man of the match. Richard Hall scored the Avon try off the back of a maul, converted by Matt Thresher