MIDSOMER NORTON 35 GORDANO 34

Midsomer Norton hold on to top spot despite a spirited performance from Gordano, who had a chance to win their second game in a row in a similar fashion, with a penalty into the wind in the final play of the game.

Unlike the drop goal success of the previous week, this penalty was missed and Norton emerged victorious. The crowd were treated to some excellent running rugby from both teams, but Ben Taylor’s superb goal kicking under pressure made the decisive difference on this occasion. It’s away to Matson for a big top of the table clash this week.

AVONVALE 2nds 38 MIDSOMER NORTON 3rds 23

The Thirds travelled to Bathford on Saturday to play Avonvale in their Bath combination fixture.

Despite losing, the team put in a gutsy performance and showed some real application in scoring four tries. This effort forced the hosts to make use of their strong bench and ultimately pull clear in the final quarter.

Avonvale started the stronger, and their fast running backs scored three tries in quick succession as they threatened to run away with the game. Norton dug deep though, and their forward power saw them claw their way back into the game.

Prop, Will Edgell, was excellent in the loose, and was ably backed up by the rest of the pack. The scrum was proving an area of real dominance, and as Norton headed for the line, Captain, Ian Tiley, picked and went over for the visitors’ first try.

Soon after, Norton were back in their opponents’ 22, and this time a powerful drive by the pack saw flanker, James Kingsbury, go over. Full-back, Jon Swift, added a penalty soon after to put Norton back in contention.

The second half was an evenly-contested affair, with both sides trading scores. Norton added two further tries, one following a surging run by centre, Kieron Baker, and the second, following another forward drive, allowed flanker, Josh Carter, to be driven over the line.

The hosts countered though, and made the game safe with a couple of late tries out wide from their rapid backs. This weekend, Norton Thirds entertain Wincanton at Norton Down; kick-off 2.15 p.m.