21/11/09 - Tribute Somerset Two South: Chard II 32 v 5 North Petherton II

Report by Ben Williams

21st November 2009
Somerset 2 South.
Chard 2nd XV 32 v North Petherton 2nd XV 5.

Petherton travelled to Chard on a rain swept afternoon with the bare 15 after four cry offs on Saturday morning. Fortunately for the team the Colts game against Clevedon was called off and three colts travelled with the team.

Petherton arrived at Chard with the pitch only looking fit for a swimming gala, not a rugby match, but the referee allowed the game to continue none the less. Petherton conceded a try within the first minute with Chards kick off being allowed to bounce into touch deep into Pethertons 22. From the resulting lineout Chard caught and drove over in the corner for a perfect start.
Petherton fought back putting together some good phases, but with the weather restricting the style of play, they were unable to unleash another strong backline, with the ball being kept up the jumper, which suited Chards larger pack. Tries were conceded throughout the match in farcical conditions, with little to show in return for some good determination from Petherton. Petherton's only try was scored late on by back row Russell Potter. Following some good pressure from the forwards Potter broke through Chards defence to score out wide.

Despite this loss, which was a game in hand for Petherton, credit must go to those players who gave it their all in Lake Chard !

Next week: - Away at Ivel Barbarians.