A change in fortune (From Gazette Series)

A change in fortune

Pilning 7 Wotton-Under 5

Severn Beach has been a happy hunting ground for Wotton in recent years but the South Gloucestershire outfit found Pilning a much improved side and were frustrated for much of this Division Three encounter.

Wotton struck first after a powerful drive from prop Morris but this touch down in the second minute was to prove Wotton's last as the remainder of the match belonged to two determined defences.

In sticky conditions Wotton found retaining possession an almost impossible task but when a weaving run from blindside flanker Weston turned the Pilning defence a try looked likely. However setting the pattern for the rest of the game the home defence recovered in time to quash the attack.

Returning from a lengthy absence Wotton openside Chris Hull made his mark showing a priceless hunger for the loose ball but for all Wotton's toil they couldn't add to their first half try.

As the interval neared Pilning produced their decisive reply. A stray pass was seized upon by the Sevensider's number eight who gleefully romped away to score under the posts. Crucially the try was converted.

After the restart the 7-5 scoreline was seldom threatened with frequent handling errors repeatedly spoiling both sides attacks.

The introduction of Roe to the Wotton cause gave the visitors a lift but determined defence throughout Pilnings ranks thwarted the men in black.

On the 70 minute mark when Wotton were at last awarded a penalty for offside Crosbee's kick was pushed off-course by the a stiff breeze from the Severn estuary.

Lifted by this reprieve Pilning continued to repel Wotton's attacks in the open field and it was only when the visitors reverted to 'up-the-jumper' tatics that a score looked likely.

A superb drive from the Wotton pack carried the ball from near the half way line well into the home 22 but when the maul collapsed near the line the referee gave the penalty to the defending team and Wotton's last chance was gone.

At the full time whistle Pilning players and supporters alike celebrated their 7-5 win which owed all to their spirited defence.

The Wotton-Under-Edge squad would like to invite any players in the area of all levels of experience to their Thursday night training sessions at KLB School.

Enquiries can be made to club Chairman Tim Brown (01453 519781 / 07976 652508).