Losing bonus point for Avon
Avon had to settle for a losing bonus point against a strong Weston Hornets side, succumbing to a 28-21 defeat in an enthralling Somerset Premier game in front of a sizeable crowd at Hicks Field in the autumn sunshine.
The first half proved a fairly disjointed affair as Avon struggled to win much decent possession and so spent most of the time defending in their own half against a dangerous set of Hornets backs. Avon were also their own worst enemies in conceding a string of penalties which disrupted their rhythm and which allowed their visitors to build up a 6-0 lead.
After being under the cosh for 30 minutes, Avon then scored a lovely converted try in their first visit to Hornets territory to take the lead. Escher Le Duq made an incisive break through midfield, which was continued through some deft offloads from Xander Davies and Ben May amongst the supporting pack before the ball was spread wide to Zak Harwood who powered over by the corner flag. Rob Fitch converted magnificently from the touchline.
New winger George Jenkins had a couple of threatening runs before being forced off with a hamstring injury, whilst fellow debutant Dan Cousineau impressed with his power and athleticism at number 8. Kiddie Skeikh produced an allaction display at scrum half, whilst Dan Griffin’s performance led to his Man of the Match award on the flank.
The spell after half-time saw Hornets dangerous backs eventually break free as a couple of scything attacks were rewarded with two excellent converted tries.
Another successful penalty increased their lead still further and left Avon staring down the barrel. To their credit, Avon responded strongly in adversity with two converted tries themselves. Firstly replacement Scott Book secured clean lineout ball and two quick rucks later Ollie Flight forced his way over the try-line under the posts.
Then winger Iain Parris showed tremendous acceleration to kick ahead and win the race for another touchdown.
Two Fitch conversions set the score at 23-21 with a tense final five minutes to follow. It was Hornets though who achieved the decisive score as a final attack resulted in their third try in the corner to take the spoils.
Avon skipper Kane Book, who made his 300th first team appearance, was pleased with the spirited comeback which set a foundation to build upon next week at home to Bristol Harlequins.
Meanwhile the revamped Avon 2nd, featuring an eclectic blend of some regulars, a few former players, some previous first team stalwarts and some enthusiastic newcomers, enjoyed an end to end outing against Frome 3rd which ended up in an entertaining 33-29 win for the visitors.
The Avon tries were scored by Man of the Match Dave Rutter, Ben Crane, skipper Ben Hurd and Josh Harding-wyatt (2) with Paul Bates slotting two conversions, whilst debutants Dan Cater in the second row and winger Tai Harwood impressed throughout.
Keynsham began their South West 1 West campaign with a 29-11 win over Sidmouth.
Oldfield Old Boys were beaten 31-5 at Nailsea & Backwell in the Somerset Premier, while Stothert & Pitt lost 26-5 at Imperial.