Chard 2nd XV 32 Midsomer Norton RFC 3rd XV 5
The Thirds travelled to Chard Seconds on Saturday for their first game of the season. With their hosts coming down from the league above last year, Norton knew they would be in for a hard game. So it proved, although the Norton side can be proud of their efforts, as their ‘never say die’ attitude made Chard work very hard for the win.
Norton played the first half well, using the conditions to their favour. The kicking of fly-half, Andrew Best, kept the hosts on the back foot. Chard struggled to break through a strong Norton defence with centre, Jason Taylor, prominent. A great hit from winger, Gregg Jones, also snuffed out an early Chard chance.
Chard took the lead with a penalty, before pouncing on a loose ball to score the first try of the game. Back came Norton and a delicate chip to the corner from Captain, Ian Tiley, allowed Norton to contest the line out. Hooker, Craig Spruce, was on hand to power over from close range for an excellent try. Chard scored once more before half-time, but Norton were very much in the hunt.
The pack played well, with flanker, Richard Wood, making a real impact. The scrum also more than held its own in cold, wet conditions.
Chard edged the game in the closing stages when they added two more tries, but Norton never gave up and pushed them all the way.
This week they host Minehead at Norton Down, kick-off at 3 p.m.