Again nothing tangible to show for a whole-hearted performance ...

In truth, Avon were their own worst enemies as they conceded a converted try out wide in the first minute of the game, then repeated the mistake with another converted try with the last play of the first half. In between, it was a great even contest as both teams enjoyed spells of superiority up and down the pitch.

After their poor start, Avon’s comeback started with a Rob Fitch penalty, then they should have scored a try after a James Leeeming break but failed to take advantage of a subsequent 4 to 1 overlap. Another Fitch penalty attempt drifted narrowly wide before Avon’s pack started to turn the screw and were eventually rewarded with Chaz Meddick’s first try of the season from a well-constructed lineout drive to take a narrow lead.

Bristol Saracens struck back with another converted try but Avon responded positively as their pack enjoyed the edge up front, whilst skipper Scott Book ruled the skies in the lineout. Meanwhile youngsters Sam Wykes and JJ Pulvertaft got through a huge amount of work in the loose exchanges although the backs display was somewhat disjointed and, too often, led to turnovers or knock-ons to concede possession.

At 21-8 adrift at half time, Avon needed to score first and immediately threatened as veteran Damo Sawyer danced through the defence but a series of forward drives were held out by strong Sarries tackling. Then came the killer blow as a sudden counter attack saw Saracens use their close supporting runners to add their 4th try to clinch an attacking bonus point. The next 30 minutes were closely contested with no scores, although Avon camped inside the home half but could break through the stubborn home defence despite rampaging charges from Xander Davies and Zak Harwood.

Although Scott Book was forced to leave the field with a neck injury, his replacement Ian Burntsnail soon made his presence felt as he powered over for a try under the posts. With Fitch slotting the conversion, Avon were right back in contention with 10 minutes remaining but started to chase the game from very deep positions. Whilst admirable in intention, this gave the speedy Sarries backs the counter-attacking platform that they were seeking as they capitalised with another 2 tries to close out the 38-15 win.

Next week Avon entertain Cheltenham at Hicks Field whilst their 2nds travel to Barton Hill.