Taunton RFC 24 - 0 St Mary's Old Boys

Clinical, efficient, patient, effective - all words that could describe Taunton's performance against the Bristolians.

The foundation of the win was a rock solid defence and the speed of movement away from the breakdown.

St. Mary's, who had won 9 of their previous 10 matches against Taunton, were every bit as strong as those winning teams and their defence was just as uncompromising.

But, whereas Taunton made the most of their opportunities, the visitors squandered the few they had.

Up front, the lineout was immaculate and the scrum solid, apart from losing one against the head early in the second half.

Behind the piano shifters were the playmakers. Hamish Reeves at 9 oiled the wheels and his half back partner, John Martin, supplied the subtlety and control, whether with boot or by hand.

The sides flexed their muscles in the first quarter, the only score a penalty from Martin.
On the half hour, Taunton launched a drive from a lineout and 20 metres later, lock James Lamb emerged with the score.

Mike Powell had a good chance to put the visitors on the board but hooked a penalty wide before the best example of Taunton's patience and control led to a try in the corner by full back Scott Baker. Seven phases of play produced an overlap and it was 13-0 at the interval.

Ten minutes into the second session, Martin tried a penalty from 40 metres against the breeze but it fell short. But he made amends with two more from closer range as Taunton closed the game down.

There was time for a superb, scything run from lock Ross Ward who found debutant Sean Bennett. He linked with fellow winger Alan Gill who finished off wide out.

Berkshire referee, David Drake, was in quiet control throughout and would have enjoyed his post-game pint from match sponsors, Taunton Brewing Company, which is now based in West Bagborough.

Bill Luckett