Another 3 tries but another loss

Avon allowed their opponents to build up a huge lead at half time before fighting back to reduce the deficit but eventually falling short at the end despite a spirited comeback.

On the back of 24 successive wins, Bristol Saracens showed great confidence and scored almost straight from the kick off as they took advantage from some poor tackling for an early 7 nil lead. They immediately added a penalty before Avon responded in kind with a successive kick from Rob Fitch in their first attack.

Avon’s problems stemmed from their inability to win and keep sufficient possession, which allowed the fit and athletic Sarries to add two more quick tries through their supportive off-loading game.

Despite losing prop Chris Hurd to a rib injury, Avon responded strongly with several forward charges from Chaz Meddick, Chris Sawyer and Ian Burnell and established a ten-minute foothold in the visitors’ territory where they were met with strong defence. Unfortunately a speculative kick ahead against the run of play, bounced kindly and from a quickly-taken tap penalty, Sarries struck for their fourth try.

Staring down the barrel, Avon responded strongly with a series of counter attacks which resulted in Harry Fuller dancing through for a try at the posts, converted by Fitch to reduce the deficit to 29-10 at half time.

The second half was a different story as Avon started to win a fair share of possession to force Sarries on the defensive. Although veteran Damien Sawyer was forced to leave the field with an ankle injury, allowing Simon Vanstone to make his debut joining Jack Garmson off the bench, Avon cranked up the pressure and suddenly clawed back a try as prop Kane Book charged through for a popular score.

With Zak Harwood proving a threat up the middle and Ollie Flight almost running the length of the field after an interception , Avon were in the ascendancy and it was no surprise when they added their third try through a lineout drive finished off by the predatory hooker Ben Hurd.

Facing another 30 minutes’ action and with a single score separating the teams, Avon had the opportunity to add the bonus point try but they failed to exploit two clear-cut lineout opportunities deep inside their visitors’ 22. With time running out and Avon chasing the game, Sarries made Avon suffer for their profligacy as they scored with the last decisive action of the game to clock up a 36-20 win. This left them undefeated in third place in Western Counties North, whilst Avon are in tenth position.

Avon 2nds and Walcot 3rds played an enjoyable friendly before their league action gets underway. Walcot triumphed 29-12 in a match officiated in his unique style by Avon club captain, Scott Book, whilst he continues his recovery from a long-term injury. The match was notable for Avon livewire prop, Louis Belsten, who celebrated his maiden try for the club in his inimitable style. Matt Thresher also scored a try and added a conversion.