Playing on the 3G artificial pitch, where the Hornets had only lost once all season, proved an interesting challenge which Avon overcame in style as coach Kai Harwood summed up “This was a real professional performance in a new environment which gave us another win on the road and the satisfaction of no points scored against our well-organised defence”

With Avon’s pack dominating the set pieces led by props Chris Mutlow and Kane Book and deft handling stretching the Hornets defence, several early chances were created before Avon opened the scoring as winger Ollie Flight joined a driving maul from a lineout to touch down their first try. Jonny Batchelor converted magnificently from out wide.

Hornets bounced back strongly and should have levelled the scores after a great run down the touchline from their winger but the presence of the chasing Rory Crowther was enough to make him drop the ball over the try line. Avon tightened up their defence to protect their lead but found it difficult to maintain continuity in attack as the greasy ball and some needless penalties allowed Hornets to clear the danger.

In the second half, Avon increased their intensity with skipper Scott Book driving his team forward and man-of-the-match Zak Harwood proving a real menace through midfield. This soon gave Avon good field position as they recycled the ball through several phases from an attacking line out before non-stop flanker Ian Burnell brushed aside 3 attempted tackles to score their second try. Batchelor again added the extras.

Effervescent number 8, Josh Harding-Wyatt, continued to keep Avon on the front foot with several powerful charges (backed up with an unlikely lineout steal) and it was no surprise when they scored again. With half backs Alex Gapper and Rob Fitch probing for openings, the ball was swiftly moved towards the blindside to find Sam Book lurking on the touchline (in true hooker Hurdy-style) where he dotted down for a well-taken try.

There was still time for Hornets to respond but promising chances were foiled by excellent Avon tackling, epitomised by Glen Atherton and Dan Griffin, to ensure they remained pointless in a game well-handled by the 72 year-old referee. This win means that Avon remain in 3rd position and will entertain fellow high-flyers Gordano on 25th November in a crunch game at Hicks Field to determine 2nd place in the league.