Mike Chillingworth prepares to contest a lineout against Minehead, supported by Bill Frost (1) and Mike Coles

Seconds unlucky against Merit Table leaders

15/04/06 - Merit Table: North Petherton 8 v 15 Minehead

Report by Cameron Kirk

Whilst the scoreline may suggest a negative game this was by far the best game of the season that the 2nds had played in. Unfortunately the result didn’t go for Petherton as a disputed offside decision and an unlucky bounce were the difference between the two sides. 

The game was fiercely contested from start to finish with both defences on top. However, both teams took the decision to run the ball as much as possible. Although the game was played in a great spirit the referee must also be congratulated for playing his part in a real nip and tuck affair. 

The game started at a frenetic pace with Minehead looking to give their dangerous backs as much ball as possible. Superb defending, especially from the centre partnership of Russell Potter and Keith Robinson, meant that Petherton’s forwards were able to exert their pressure in the loose and at set-plays. Petherton’s recently recruited prop, John Webber, and Steve Stone at hooker were beginning to dominate the game.  Just as Petherton were looking to get on top in the scrums, Minehead’s prop was injured and they did not have a front row replacement (something which Petherton only queried in the bar after the game, is this allowed in the Merit table?). Therefore from 20 minutes into the game the scrums became uncontested which scuppered one of Petherton’s strengths. Despite free running rugby from both teams, misplaced passes and a few knock-ons meant that for such an open game the half-time score was incredibly 0-0.

The second half mirrored the first as both teams looked to attack at every opportunity but were met with great resistance. Petherton’s outside half, Jon Gallagher, in particular was starting to break the Minehead line with his pace and power. Only a possible trip kept him out on one occasion.

The first score then came from a disputed offside as Minehead’s number 10 intercepted a pass and did well to re-catch it before crossing the line. The conversion was missed.  Petherton’s reply was swift and following several phases of play the ball was spun wide and wing Richard Skinner scored in the corner. The conversion was also missed.  

Minehead took the lead again from a penalty, which was quickly followed by a penalty from the home full back Mark Sutherland-Earl, making the score 8-8.  The decisive score came straight from the restart as Petherton kicked long. Minehead ran it back and a misplaced kick from an attacking forward took a wicked bounce on the hard ground and landed right into the hands and path of his colleague.  He was able to score under the posts and the conversion put Petherton 7 points behind at 15-8. The last 5 minutes of the game were played in Minehead’s ‘22 but despite Petherton’s best efforts they could not score again.

Jon Gallagher was Petherton’s best player but all 18 that were used put in 110%.

Mike Grey claims the ball in the lineout as Rob Kearle (17) admires his throw

 

Mark Sutherland-Earl is too quick for the cameraman, as well as the on-rushing Minehead defence