North Bristol 2nd XV v Avonmouth 2nd XV

WHILE Oaklands was buzzing with the rugby-loving public on Ladies Day, North Bristol seconds and Avonmouth seconds set out to offer exciting fare to capture the imagination of all.

Excellent lineout work from North, where Alfie Ford and Joey O’Brien dominated was crucial, as ‘Mouth’s pack had the edge at scrummage.

North’s novices at the coalface, Craig Hazard, Jake Phillips and Billy Collins never gave up in the unequal struggle upfront.

A quartet of aspiring colts showed much promise too, but it was outstanding centre Jacob Marsh, who blasted over to score the first try. Not to be outdone, Avonmouth soon replied with a good running try to level at 5-5.

Very soon it was 5-10 to the visitors, as their electrifying quick right wing scorched in for his first try. Good driving play from North’s back-rowers, Joe Page and Andy McManus, set the tone before Marsh popped up to feed powerhouse lock, Ben Purdy, who in turn, fed try-hungry Steve Hudd, who took the scoring honours.

A good conversion from Billy Cantin gave North a 12-10 lead.

By now quick tap-penalties were taken by both sides to maintain a breath-taking pace and Peter Swallow’s try capped a fine performance for the fullback, as North led 17-10.

Avonmouth, however, blessed with pace and fitness, stepped up their game and a succession of fast attractive tries saw them overtake North Bristol, who faded in the final quarter, leaving ‘Mouth to run in five more tries in the second half.

While North’s early endeavours were laudable, Avonmouth’s eventual 17-40 win was well deserved.