1sts Continue Impressive Run

Bridgwater, reinforced by a number of their 1st team players whose match was cancelled, belied their lowly league position with an impressive performance that could easily have achieved greater reward. Dominating the first 10 minutes, they took the lead with a converted try after some solid approach work. Gradually though, Avon worked their way back into the game, prompted by Scott Book and Ian Burnell up front, supported by Zak Harwood and Alex Gapper outside.

Playing some great rugby with the forwards and backs combining fluently in the 2nd quarter, Avon scored a 3 try blitz inside 10 minutes to take a comfortable half time lead. Firstly, Ollie Flight capitalised on a quickly taken tap penalty to surge over the try line. Then a magnificent spell of sustained attacks saw Harwood touch down out wide with Jonny Batchelor slotting the conversion. As Avon’s ascendency grew, a series of close quarter forward drives created the platform for scrum half Gapper to snipe over for their 3rd try, again converted by Batchelor.

Bridgwater narrowed the gap after the break to a single score with another converted try and continued to test the Avon defence, well marshalled by man of the match Will Hayward and Josh Harding-Wyatt in the back row with Sam Wykes also making an impressive performance off the bench. After soaking up the Bridgwater pressure, Avon suddenly launched a searing counter attack from deep with James Leeming, Batchelor, Dan Griffin, Harwood and Burnell all combining to thrust into the visitors 22. A couple of quick passes later saw play switched to the narrow side where Xander Davis powered over for the bonus point try to settle the outcome.

Afterwards Director of Rugby Clive Book said "I'm glad that we faced a strong Bridgwater team who posed a stern challenge to us. The lads responded well to find a way to unlock their defence and hold out their attacks for an impressive win."

Next week, Avon host Weston Super Mare 2nds at Hicks Field.

Meanwhile, Avon 2nds went down to a 19-34 defeat in an enjoyable merit table game against Westbury 2nds. Ben Hurd scored 2 tries for Avon with Tom R adding another and Alec Gray slotting 2 conversions to complete the scoring.