Blackheath V Taunton Titans

This was a game of open rugby, both sides running the ball and living up to their reputations. 

At the end of the day, Taunton achieved what they had to do and win, writes Hugh Duder.

Blackheath opened the scoring followed by an eight-minute spell that saw Taunton claim three converted tries to lead 5-21.That lead never seriously threatened. Sam Prior scored an individual try followed by Conor Banks, who benefitted from a charge down clearance and Deago Bailey rounded the defence. The clock showed 17 minutes played.

At the break, Taunton led 24-15. On 55 minutes, the try bonus point arrived after a deft kick ahead by Louie Sinclair sent in Charlie Wright for his 19^th try of the season. 15-31.

Two more penalties for Sinclair who was now kicking for fun made it 15-37.

A couple of tries for the home side reduced the arrears to 27-37. Another penalty for Taunton made it 27-40, followed by a brilliant solo try by Deago Bailey to make it 27-47.

Blackheath got a score back – the last play of the game.

A resounding win for Taunton, 32-47, capped by a scintillating display by Louie Sinclair, who contributed 22 points. This win was Titans’ fourth on the bounce.

As this march finished, news was coming through that Leicester had taken the lead at Sale with a 35-metre penalty with eight minutes remaining meaning Taunton will return to Division 2 after three seasons in National 1 by the narrowest of margins.

On reflection, they will now have the determination to tighten up their discipline and defence and make an immediate impact and return to National 1.

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