Sat 25 Sep 2021, 15:00
BURNHAM 29pts CHARD 3PTS
By Glyn Hughes
Following their big win against Bideford last weekend Chard travelled to Burnham with a strong squad looking for their first away points of the season.
A tough encounter was expected particularly as Burnham had only narrowly lost their previous home game to current league leaders Wadebridge.
Unfortunately the best laid plans don’t always come off and Chard were up against it for long periods of the match.
Chard actually started the game quite well and the first 15m were fairly evenly contested even though Burnham were winning the greater share of possession
Chard took the lead when fly half Niall Crouch successfully converted a penalty kick but little did the Chard supporters realise that this would be the only time that their team would get any points!
The Chard defence was generally good at this point but with the home side winning a lot of ball the pressure eventually told and Burnham skipper Sam Lewis crossed for their first try which was converted by full back Al ex Watson to put Burnham 7-3 ahead
Chard were defending desperately but were penalised for some high tackles and after a few warnings Chard had Matt Tinley sent to the bin on the half hour.
With a man advantage and some powerful play Burnham were constantly breaking the gain line and after 36 mins they scored their second try when lock forward Sam Everett crossed the whitewash. The try was unconverted but Burnham now held a useful 12-3 advantage. Just prior to the break full back Watson added a penalty goal and Chard were 15-3 down at the break giving themselves a lot to do to get back into the game.
H/t 15-3
Chard pride themselves on their defensive play but eight minutes into the second period they were caught out when some missed tackles allowed Ryan Beard to go over for Burnhams 3rd try again converted by Watson.
Burnham’s good play forced Chard into making mistakes again and they got the bonus point their play deserved when winger George Goodall went over for the 4th try again converted by Watson.
Jack Elliot had a really good game for Chard but the team were well beaten on the day and will really have to make a big improvement next Saturday when they entertain Wiveliscombe at home kicking off at 3pm particularly as the visitors have had a really good start to the season themselves
A good crowd is expected with ‘Wivey’ certain to bring over a large crowd of spectators so lets have the home support out in big numbers and make it three wins from three at home.
Kick off will be 3pm,
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