Midsomer Norton 3rd XV 19 Frome 3rd XV 31

The Thirds hosted local rivals, Frome, on Saturday for their first league meeting of the season. It was an entertaining game, with both sides producing some good rugby but ultimately the bigger and more experienced Frome side won out against the more youthful Norton side.

The game was very much a game of two halves. Frome dominated the first period, playing down the slope, and scored five unanswered tries to put themselves into a commanding lead.

The second half saw Norton mount a spirited fight back. The pack began to dominate against the tiring hosts, and this allowed the fast and skilful Norton backs to come to the fore. Fly half, Luke Williams, grew into the game and ensured the ball was moved wide whenever he got the opportunity. This enabled strong running centre, Kemar Stewart, to score a well-deserved try, which was converted by Williams.

More good play from the backs set up field position and the Norton pack did the rest. Lock, Tom Hillier, was on hand on two occasions to power over from close range after prolonged periods of pressure. Scrum half, Nathan Fear, added one of the conversions to bring Norton back into contention.

Unfortunately, a couple of half chances were missed, and Frome deservedly hung on for the win that their first half performance deserved.

This weekend, the Thirds host Huish Tigers in their last game before the Christmas break.