Avon Secure Local Bragging Rights with 24-8 Win.

The foundation was laid by the Avon pack who had the upper hand in the set piece and, despite having prop Kane Book in the unfamiliar position of second row, still put on an impressive scrummaging display.

Avon opened the scoring after 10 mins when centre Zak Harwood picked a great line to crash over close to the posts, with Fitch adding the extras. Keynsham knew they were up against it in the tight so looked to release their quick backs at every opportunity and looked extremely dangerous as they put width and pace on the ball. Avon had to be at their sharpest to contain the constant threat but their defence was solid with centres Harwood and Ross Atherton repelling every attack with some outstanding tackling.

Keynsham did get rewarded for their efforts when Edson slotted a penalty after 32 mins but the Avon pack turned the screw again as a textbook lineout catch and drive opened up space for scrum half Nick Tribe to sneak over from close range to give the visitors a 12-3 half time lead.

With Chaz Medick, Ben Hurd and Chris Mutlow in command at scrum time and Scott Book and Jake Dixon providing an ample supply of line out ball, the pattern of the game continued in the early part of the second half. Avon extended their lead when skipper Kai Harwood benefited from another strong driving maul to dive over from short range, opening up a 17-3 lead with 30 minutes still to play.
Keynsham, whose support play throughout was excellent, fought hard to get back in the game and continued their sensible tactics of trying to keep the ball alive and as far from the Avon pack as possible. Although struggling at the set scrum, they did manage to get the ball away on most occasions and secured enough line out ball to be able to build a number of impressive attacks, which meant Avon could never relax. In fact, Avon were guilty of sitting back on their lead and trying to shut out the game and finally paid the price when reduced to 14 man for a sin bin offence as Keynsham scored a well deserved try out wide with 5 minutes to play.

This seem to spark Avon out of their defensive mindset as they increased their intensity in search of the bonus point try. Having been awarded a scrum 22m out, there was little doubt about how far the ball would be straying from number 8 Harwood's feet in the dying moments of the game. 3 mins, 3 penalties and 3 scrums later, Avon were marching towards the home line again before Keynsham once more infringed and conceded the inevitable penalty try with Fitch slotting the easy conversion.
Next week, Avon entertain 2nd placed Newent at Hicks Field whilst their 2nds are at home to Midsomer Norton. With both matches sponsored by Paul Knight Plumbing, Avon are also holding an Old Players Reunion and hoping for a large crowd in support.