Excellent Bonus Point Win in Adversity

This was based on a tremendous team display to not only overcome the blustery conditions but to collect a try scoring bonus and restrict high-scoring Wivvy to a sole consolation try in the last minute of an enthralling match.

Playing against the strong wind in the first half, Avon made a fantastic start, retaining the ball through multiple phases as their hard-working pack dominated possession. With Josh Hiscott, Xander Davis and Kane Book making the hard yards and Zak Harwood and Glen Atherton driving through the midfield, the pressure eventually took its toll as fly half Stu Dilloway scythed through for the opening try.

As Wivvy started to take advantage of the conditions, Avon were forced to defend deep inside their own half but determined tackling led by Ian Burnell and Will Hayward thwarted their attacks. Having contained Wivvy’s powerful ball carriers, the visitors were limited to two penalties for a narrow 6-5 lead at half time.

Quietly confident of overturning the deficit with the elements in their favour, Avon suffered a setback shortly into the second period as replacement flanker Chaz Meddick was sent off for some over-vigorous rucking. Avon responded magnificently to the challenge and soon took the lead as man of the match Rory Crowther capped an impressive display at number 8 to surge over for a try. He soon repeated this with his second try after clean lineout ball was swiftly moved infield before he charged over the try line again, with Jonny Batchelor slotting the conversion.

With Wivvy rarely able to escape from their own half and Avon held up just short several times, they finally scored their 4th try as Alex Gapper finished off a sweeping handing movement to cross unopposed to secure the bonus point. Again Batchelor converted.

Avon were reduced to 13 men for the final 5 minutes as skipper Scott Book collected a yellow card after a number of repeated penalties. This allowed Wivvy to finally take advantage of their numbers up front as they trundled over for a consolation try from a lineout catch and drive.

Afterwards Coach Kai Harwood said “This was a masterful performance from start to finish, with and against the wind, where we totally imposed our game plan against a good team for an impressive performance in adversity.”

Next week Avon travel to Nailsea whilst the 2nds entertain Keynsham at Hicks Field.