South West Division

One West

Thornbury 38

Camborne 25

THORNBURY made light of their injury problems to secure a maximum points win over league leaders Camborne in a terrific game of rugby.

Spectators had their money’s worth as Thorns scored three tries in the opening quarter then built on their lead with three further tries in 15 second half minutes to ease through to a fine victory.

Camborne kicked off playing uphill but determined and aggressive defence by Thorns kept their line intact and instead it was Thornbury who scored first.

With five minutes gone, Thornbury won a lineout on the Camborne ‘22’. Bob Adams converted superbly from the touchline.

Shortly afterwards Will Sharratt and Sam Evans drove though the Camborne defence and the ball was moved wide where Luke Workman crashed over in the corner. Adams converted again for a 14-0 lead.

Camborne hit back with a converted try from a driving lineout and it was ‘game on’ at 14-7.

Thornbury ignored this set - back and attacked again and from an attacking lineout drove Jack Hussey over for a third try.

Thorns were well worth their 19-7 lead as the first quarter ended.

Thornbury went for the fourth try but dropped the ball three times close to the line. Instead, Camborne got back into the game and kicked two penalties.

The momentum was with the visitors as half time arrived with Thornbury leading 19-13.

Camborne looked the better side at the start of the second half but the game swung back towards Thornbury. Jak Evans hoisted a high box-kick. The wind blew it into midfield where Adams and Matthews chased.

The ball went loose for Mathews to charge on before quick passing across the three-quarters allowed Alfie Richardson to join the line. He stepped inside two players and scored the bonus point try. Thorns led 24-13.

The knife was twisted when shortly afterwards Jak Evans broke from the back of a roll - ing maul and charged to the line. The ball was recycled and moved to Matthews who crashed over for his second try. Sharratt converted for 31-13.

Thornbury tails were up. Matthews was held up in the corner then Liam Pemberton ran a great line and took a short pass and crashed over for the sixth try. Sharratt converted and the game was effectively won.

Thorns visibly took their foot off the gas and Camborne scored two late consolation tries. Thornbury re-asserted their control and closed out the last few minutes for a 38-25 win.

Against top opposition, Thornbury played their own game at their own pace and Camborne were unable to break them down. The backs were danger - ous whilst the forwards were individually and collectively terrific.

Thorns remain third equal with Bridgwater on points but with Bridgwater having won more games it is they that sit immediately below Camborne at the top of the table. Thornbury’s next game is at Avonmouth on January 2nd.

Thornbury Scorers: tries – Dai Matthews (2), Luke Workman, Jack Hussey, Alfie Richardson, Liam Pemberton; conversions – Bob Adams (2), Will Sharratt (2)