Midsomer Norton 26 Barton Hill 19

Midsomer Norton made it five-in-a-row unbeaten with a bonus-point victory at Barton Hill, a result that keeps them third at the half way stage.

The win was achieved with a performance of grit and desire as the young team adapted to a range of challenges thrown at them. The home side had taken the lead early in the match, but Norton - who were playing up the slope - took a half-time lead of 12-7 after Hugh Jeffery scored twice.

The first came from a flowing break instigated by his centre partner Schuster, whilst the second came on the stroke of halftime after Midsomer Norton had patiently built pressure.

The lead was extended in the second half when Mitch Rose powered over from range.

The hooker, who was again impressive, was too powerful and men fell off him as he drove over the line.

Barton Hill hit back with a penalty try before Jeffery completed his hat-trick after cutting a fine line.

A Barts try in the corner with three minutes to go set up a tense finish but Norton saw the game out for a deserved victory.

This Saturday (3rd December), Midsomer Norton host Cheltenham North in what is expected to be a 2pm kick off.