Fielding a monstrous pack, Avon completely dominated the set scrums but were unable to turn the pressure into points due to some resolute Norton defence and the tricky conditions. Equally, the driving rain and gale force winds negated Norton’s free-flowing wide game where they were at their most dangerous. However, they did take an early lead with a converted try after a counter-attacking run took advantage of a couple of missed tackles.

For the next 30 minutes, the two sides largely cancelled each other out. Mounting Avon pressure saw a sequence of powerful scrums and attacking line outs but the home defence held firm with lengthy relieving kicks in the strong winds.

Just before half time, Norton struck the killer blows with two clever tries as they swept round the corner to create blindside overlaps to take a 19 nil lead at the interval.

With the elements now in their favour, Avon dominated the next quarter and were eventually rewarded as a 15 metre drive saw Ben May awarded the touch down beneath the pile of bodies. Despite two yellow cards for high tackles, 13 man Avon continued to play well and keep Norton scoreless in their absence. However, the league leaders fitness and organisation prevented any further scores from the visitors before a final breakaway try at the end cemented their bonus point victory.

For Avon, the man-of-the-match award went to Xander Davis, whilst Mitch Rose picked up the accolade for Midsomer Norton. Their 4 tries were scored by Chris Harper, Connor Shuster, Noah Watts and Joel Hawker, with Tom Rideout slotting 3 conversions.