Sutherland-Earl scores last minute try to win local derby

14/04/07 - Somerset Three South: North Petherton II 43 v 36 Morganians

Report from the Bridgwater Mercury

A try by Petherton fly-half Mark Sutherland-Earl in the final seconds settled this tremendous game of rugby at Beggars Brook on Saturday.

The veteran dummied his way over between the posts and kicked the conversion, which was the final act of the match. On a very firm pitch, with the sun beating down, the players had many battle scars to show afterwards.

A great performance by their forwards was crucial for the home side, as was the skilful play at centre of Bridgwater & Albion colt Sam Williams, guesting because his team had no game. Morgs were lacklustre at the start, having not played for three weeks.
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In the first half, Petherton scored three well-worked tries through wing Lloyd Steward (2) and Sutherland-Earl, who kicked two conversions and a penalty as they led 22-19 at half-time.

In the second half, with scoring tit for tat, the visitors went into a 36-29 lead before Petherton's late rally. Skipper Paul Goddard scored three tries for Morgs, while Jason Richards touched down once and Phil Curd once. Curd kicked three conversions.

Petherton's other second-half try-scorers were No 8 Larry Steward and lock Wayne Pither. Sutherland-Earl converted all the second-half tries and finished with 23 points.