Avon Outplayed at Leaders Matson
Sometimes in rugby you come up against a confident team who are at the top of their game, playing with pace, power and precision.
Unbeaten league leaders Matson were all this and more. Still missing 10 players through injury and unavailability, Avon competed bravely against the odds but ultimately were outplayed by an excellent team who already look to have the Western Counties North title sewn up.
Playing down the slope, Matson delivered an exhilarating brand of fast open rugby as they spread the ball wide at every opportunity to score 4 converted tries inside the first 20 minutes to leave Avon reeling. To their credit, Avon never stopped tackling and took the game to their opponents whenever they could through their short inter-passing game. But, whenever there was a breakdown or turnover, Matson ruthlessly exploited the chance to sweep downfield again with some mesmerising running and handling.
The youngsters in Avon's ranks - Alex Gapper, JJ Pulvertaft, Adam Hinchcliffe-Walz, Harry Fuller and James Leeming - all put in strong performances and will have learnt a lot from the experience. Then, after a 5th home try, Avon finally got on the scoreboard with the last kick of the half as Rob Fitch slotted a penalty for a 33-3 deficit at the interval.
Turning round down the hill, Avon made the worst possible start as they conceded another try from a handling movement deep inside their hosts territory. But they immediately struck back as Fitch charged down a relieving kick on half way and out-sprinted the cover defence to touch down a try in the corner.
Encouraged by this breakthrough, Avon started to create further chances through the driving play of their pack and two rare opportunities out wide through Dan Griffin and Nick Tribe which went begging. Matson meanwhile added another two tries through their clever running lines and outstanding support play.
Avon again had a scoring chance at the other end from a 5 metre lineout before James Leeming fastened onto a chip ahead to score Avon's second try, converted by Fitch. With 10 minutes remaining and Avon enjoying greater possession and creating more chances, there seemed an unlikely opportunity that they might yet salvage a try bonus point.
Bringing on club stalwart Louis Belsten to make his 1st team debut, Avon launched a final onslaught but Matson's defence proved too strong as they closed out a comprehensive 50-15 win.
Next week, Avon are at home to Burnham who enjoyed a close 15-12 win over Chew Valley.
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