Taunton RFC 25 - 20 Weston-S-M

Taunton reached the final of the Somerset Cup for the first time in over 20 years.

A grand slam hangover and missing wellies prevented a personal visit to North Petherton to see this humdinger of a semi-final and thanks are due to Lee-Anne for her description of the match.

Taunton last met Weston in the County Cup 13 years ago at Priory Park and, in a one-sided match, refereed by Tony Spreadbury, lost by 44 points -17 (for the historians amongst you, Taunton's first ever match - in 1875 - was against Weston).

The Seasiders are a level above Taunton, after spending several years in the National League, and have been in the promotion race again this season.

But Taunton were in no way overawed and on Petherton's muddy pitch, after the previous day's downpour, led 6-0 at half time.

Both kickers missed penalties but Taunton's fly half Matt Ayres landed two - one early on and the other just before the break, when Weston had a man in the sin-bin.

Taunton's control up front was excellent and their back line, lead by Simon Martin, used the ball well as both sides tried to play expansive rugby.

Just short of the hour winger Ben Rudkin, Taunton's leading try scorer, made it 13 for the season to put Taunton 11 points up but Weston struck back with a penalty and an unconverted try of their own.

Ayres then stretched Taunton's lead, crossing for a try and adding the extras.

With 5 minutes left, Taunton prop Alan Lowe was yellow carded and Weston immediately filled their boots with a couple of tries, the conversion of the second putting them two points ahead.

But Taunton were not done and their controlled firepower up front won them a penalty try and the match. Ayres finished the game with the conversion and a personal haul of fifteen points.

Coach Danny Thomas was impressed with Taunton's control for long periods and their ability to put the ball in the right areas; whilst it was good to reach the cup final, the focus was on finishing the league season strongly.

Taunton have three league matches left. First up is a trip to Hornets on 29 March. Brixham are visitors to Hyde Park a fortnight later and the season ends at Yatton on 19th April.

Bill Luckett