Whole Hearted Endeavour Not Enough to Reverse Trend

Playing up the slope against the wind and rain in foul conditions always meant that the first half was going to be a case of keeping in touch on the scoreboard at half time. For a while, Avon's defence held firm before an incessant series of short drives saw Barts open the scoring with a converted try.

Every time Avon worked their way back up field through close quarter plays, a turnover from the greasy ball allowed Barts to put in massive relieving kicks to force them back inside their 22 again. This allowed them to extend their lead with another try after a clever grub kick ahead stood up kindly for the supporting chase.

At 12 nil adrift, Avon thought that they were still in the game as half time approached but deep into injury time, Barts delivered the killer blow with another converted try from their dangerous fullback.

Chasing down the 19 point deficit after the interval, Avon immediately struck back with a penalty from Rob Fitch. As they piled on the pressure, man of the match Alex Gapper made a great break before two more attempted penalties were blown off course by the strong wind.

Suddenly Avon were given a glimmer of hope as James Leeming combined well with Ben Crane to release prop forward Chris Mutlow on the halfway line, who showed an incredible turn of pace to surge down the touchline for an outstanding try.

With Fitch converting, Avon sensed an opportunity but couldn't secure enough ball to force another score before the elements also turned against them as the squally wind reversed direction and Barts put the result beyond doubt with a final penalty. Next week, Avon entertain bottom placed Gordano at Hicks Field and will be looking for a win in front of a large crowd at their Old Players Reunion.