3rd Win in Row in Mudbath
Avon clocked up their third win in a row with this decisive 17 points to nil win against 5th placed Chosen Hill in a storming end of season run which has secured their status in Western Counties North for next season.
In atrocious conditions that turned the pitch into a quagmire, Avon made the perfect start as a well-rehearsed lineout catch and drive saw predatory hooker Ben Hurd pounce for his 8th try of the season.
Whilst Chosen Hill sought to develop their offloading game despite the conditions, they came unstuck against an unyielding Avon defence, epitomised by the never-say-die attitude of young Zak Harwood in midfield, Ian Burnell on the flank and fullback Stu Dilloway who was rock-steady under the high ball. Yet in fairness, the win was based on an allround team display which contributed to an outstanding defensive performance that restricted the visitors ambitions.
Meanwhile Avon absolutely dominated the lineouts with Scott Book in imperious form despite the greasy ball, whilst the pack continually made the hard yards up front to crank up the pressure. The tactical kicking from half backs Ollie Flight and Rob Fitch ensured that Avon played in the right areas of the field, whilst also keeping Chosen Hill guessing with a series of darting half breaks in attack.
One such counter attack led to the next score as Avon moved the ball swiftly up the blindside where prop Chris Mutlow scorched up the wing before finding 2nd row forward Ed Bolton storming through in support to touch down his first try of the season, converted by Fitch.
After another powerful scrum drove the visitors back 20 yards, Fitch was narrowly wide with a penalty after a deliberate collapse that also saw a yellow card awarded by referee John Beazer who controlled the game excellently. Avon immediately took advantage of the extra man as another forward drive gave the opportunity for skipper Kai Harwood to power over the line for his 10th try of the campaign.
This brought up a 17 points lead for Avon at half time but, as the conditions worsened, the possibility of further scores lessened at the ball resembled a bar of soap and the pitch churned up into a mudbath. To their credit, both sides tried to string together some fluent moves but their defences remained on top to negate any further scoring.
Avon’s final game is away next Saturday to 3rd placed Barton Hill, who they beat in the opener back in September.
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