Midsomer Norton 3rd XV 26 Cheddar Valley 1st XV 3
The Thirds put in an impressive performance on Saturday as they defeated Cheddar Valley at Norton Down. Despite the wind and torrential rain, both sides played some good rugby, but it was the home side who earned the bonus point win.
Having lost the toss and with the wind in their faces in the first half, Norton more than held their own. The scrum was excellent throughout and this laid the platform which allowed the hosts to earn a slender half-time lead.
The visitors used the wind to good effect, but the Norton defence was up to the task and with flanker, Jack Rideout, winning a plentiful supply of line-out ball, Norton were able to repel any of their attacks.
The visitors did take the lead with a close range penalty after a high tackle, but Norton responded almost immediately. Driving runs from centres, Jon Swift and Ben Anderson, set up the field position and after some good play close to the line, the ball was swept wide to winger, Ed Mills, who went over in the corner. This gave Norton a narrow 5–3 lead at the break.
With the conditions in their favour, Norton took advantage. Number eight, Steve Dunster, capped a superb game with two second half tries following powerful surging runs. Flanker, Adam Sinden, scored the fourth try as he powered over after running a good supporting line. Fly-half, Steve Penny, added three conversions in difficult circumstances to ensure there was no way back for the visitors.
Cheddar showed their fighting spirit in the last quarter of the game, but the Norton defence was again up to the task to seal a well-deserved win.