Thornbury 2nds 53-0 North Bristol 2nds

Well-drilled Thornbury made good use of a surprisingly sound surface to stretch their opponents at every opportunity, and enjoyed a big win over North Bristol.

A powerful cross-wind, also helped them when North Bristol frequently misused it, allowing Thorns to come running back with near-monotonous regularity.

Thankfully, North Bristol’s efficiency at lineout and at scrums, led by front-rowers, Tony Booth, Scott Flanagan and Martin Worgan kept their side competitive. The home side’s strong running brought them 4 first-half tries, two converted, to lead 24-0 by the break.

North Bristol’s already weak side was decimated further by a series of injuries, forcing them to make full use of a six man bench.

As the game wore on, Thorns continued to plunder tries, aided by their good running and a steady decline in Norths’ tackling commitment.

Without the contribution of outstanding open-side Matt Bowden and battling scrum half Chris Gransden, things might have been even worse.

An excellent cameo from replacement flanker, Geoffrey Subde, was also of great benefit, but hesitant decision making, handling and kicking in midfield, gave Thorns an easy ride.

This good-natured fixture was well-marshaled by cool, calm Steve Leyshon, whose whistle never overshadowed the event.

While North Bristol rarely threatened Thornbury’s line, the home team rattled in five more second half touchdowns to finish deserving winners 53-0.