Despite a seemingly lethargic first half performance, Avon remained in contention at half time with a narrow deficit after both sides had traded early penalties. The crucial moment came when the visitors scored a converted try to take the lead on 30 minutes after a knock on had been signalled. With the Bristolians prop yellow carded Avon forced a succession of scrums on the visitors line but, despite several collapses, weren’t awarded the vital breakthrough until Jake Dixon finished off several forward drives to dot down for a try converted by Zak Harwood.

The second half proved a wonderful advert for Western Counties North rugby as both sides enjoyed spells of attacking dominance and defensive heroics. Avon took the lead after the forwards and backs combined to create a platform for Damien Sawyer to release Zak Harwood on a powerful charge over the line for a try that he also converted.

Then Old Bs slotted a penalty to reduce the gap to a single point which both sides tried to exploit with spells of attacking rugby. After 20 phases of recycled possession which the Avon defence resolutely withheld, Bristolians suddenly spread the ball wide for a converted try in the corner to regain the lead.

With a succession of scrums and short lineouts inside the Bristolians 22, Avon pounded the defence for the last 10 minutes but Kai Harwood, Ollie Flight, Ben Hurd and Dixon were all held up over the line by outstanding last ditch tackling.

Avon are represented at the Chronicle Sports Awards on Thursday evening in their bid for the 2011–12 team of the year before hosting Cirencester on Saturday at Hicks Field.