Bridgwater & Albion RFC 10-15 Chard RFC

It was agreed to play this local derby under lights on Friday evening rather than on the Saturday and it proved a good decision for Chard who deservedly won their third match of the season in a very close hard-fought contest. All three Chard wins to date have come when playing under lights and this narrow victory gave them the double over the hosts.

Chard played down the slight slope in the opening half and took the lead after five minutes when Oscar Anderson successfully converted a penalty. Chard started the game well and were able to gain territory with some well place kicks down field. Bridgwater however defended well and following a penalty kick to the corner put Chard under pressure for the first time. The Chard defensive play was sound however and they withstood the onslaught.

Chard scrum half Dougie Herbert broke through the home defense and appeared to have scored a terrific try close to the posts but it was disallowed because of a double movement and ‘Bridgy’ survived.

Chard were looking the most likely team to score at this stage and they were rewarded when following some good handling Joe Mainwaring touched down. Anderson added the conversion points and Chard were now ahead by 10pts.

Concentration levels from the restart were not great and the home team took full advantage of an unforced error and scored almost immediately when hooker Jordon Buller went over for a try converted by Tom Steer to bring the score to 7-10 which remained the score at half time.

Bridgwater made their intentions clear in the second half and hoisted some big kicks into the Chard half, but full back Ross Colenso had a great game and did not drop a ball at all and was able to clear well. The same could not be said for others however and some basic errors and nervous play in this must win game crept into the Chard performance. Nerves were calmed however when Chard made a lovely break up the left side and a clever grubber behind the Bridgwater backs by Anderson allowed Herbert the opportunity to score a fine try which although unconverted put Chard two scores ahead.

Chard now looked  the more likely to win the game but with kicks not finding touch even from penalties Bridgwater were still well in the game. They reduced the deficit with a penalty goal to claim a losing bonus point as  Chard held on for a really morale boosting win and the relief amongst the players and Chard supporters was palpable! It is to be hoped that the confidence gained from this victory will enhance future performances.

Chard have now moved 6 points clear of both Sherborne and Bridgwater at the bottom of the table and have reduced the gap between them and North Petherton to 3pts.

Next Saturday Chard have another big local Derby when they host Wellington which kicks off at 2pm.