Avon pick up excellent valuable win

Despite missing several regulars (the most bizarre being Jake Dixon who put his back out whilst coughing!), Avon demonstrated a sense of unity and desire that should hold them in good stead for their remaining matches at the business end of the season.

The first quarter was nip and tuck as both sides tested each others defence but, with two strikes against the head by Ben Hurd and increasing lineout dominance, The Avon pack gradually took a grip of the game. The new centre combination also paid off with Zak Harwood making several powerful runs and Ben Crane leading the way with committed tackling to thwart the Old Boys attacks.

Stuart and Ben Dilloway also threatened with the ball in hand and Bristolians were forced into conceding penalties, two of which were converted by Rob Fitch for a deserved 6 points to nil lead at half time.

After the break, a strong forward drive took play deep inside the home half where Avon camped for the next 20 minutes but were repelled by committed defence. Then from a rare breakout, Old Bristolians clawed back a penalty to narrow the gap to a single score.

This only served to inspire Avon as they responded with an excellent try off the training paddock. Smooth lineout ball was moved swiftly to the backs and recycled from a midfield switch before prop Kane Book showed a deft touch to pop the ball up to flanker Ian Burnell who stormed over the line for a try under the posts.

Fitch added the extras and Avon attacked immediately with confidence from the restart. Kai Harwood led a charge down the blindside and suddenly mobile prop Chris Mutlow was found in space on the touch line. Showing balletic balance, he danced down the line to score a popular try in the corner.

With time running out, the home side launched a wide ranging attack and were rewarded with a consolation try from a quickly taken tap penalty. But with replacement flanker Alex Morris on the field for his final game before moving to Scotland and Dexter Robinson also bidding farewell for this season, Avon closed out the game for a well deserved win.

Next weekend, Avon have a respite from league action with their tour to Brussels before resuming their campaign at Cirencester in April.