Sat 20 Nov 2021, 14:30
WESTERN COUNTIES WEST
CHARD 27PTS PAIGNTON 14PTS
A stunning fourth try from the last play of the game not only confirmed a really good win for Chard but gave them a deserved bonus point which took them into second place in this very competitive division. Chard are level on points with Truro but have a much better points difference.
Chard kept their 100% home record with a determined display despite being forced to make six changes from the team that won at Newton Abbot last time out. The benefits of a strong squad have never been more evident.
Understandably the Chard team took a bit of time to settle down and territorially Paignton had the better of the first quarter and went ahead with a penalty from full back Mike Sandercock.
0-3
Chard gradually began to get the upper hand but some wild and expansive passing made handling difficult and they did not get on the scoresheet until the 25th minute. The won a penalty , kicked to touch and from the resulting lineout won good possession which was spun out wide to the dangerous Emile Szydelko who went over in the left hand corner for a lovely but unconverted try.
5-3
Chard were now looking a dangerous unit and their much changed set of forwards were beginning to really look useful. Jack Elliot was as usual having a very good game but Chard had to make a change when Dean Richards had to leave the field with an injury and he was replaced by Ryan Helliar.
Shortly before the break the excellent work of the pack was rewarded when prop Dave Biss who always puts in a good shift touched down in the corner for a second unconverted try.
Half time Chard 10pts Paignton 3pts.
Chard had to reorganize their forwards early in the second period when Elliot was involved in a heavy collision and could not continue.
Sandercock kicked another penalty to keep his team in contention but Chard pulled away with a fine try from Luke Carslake. His outstanding run cut through the visitors defence for a terrific score. Niall Crouch added the conversion points and almost immediately added a penalty goal to pull Chard well clear of their visitors
20-6
Chard were desperately looking to create an opening to score a bonus point try but in fact it was Paignton who would get the next score when winger George Palk crossed for an unconverted effort. With minutes to go Sandercock kicked a penalty which appeared to have won his team a losing bonus point but straight from the kick off Paignton were pinned back on their own line and after a number of forward drives which nearly got rewarded Chard changed tactics. The ball came back to Crouch who kicked a long diagonal ball to the corner which was gathered by Ben Stead who touched down for the fourth try. Crouch nailed the conversion.
Final score Chard 27pts Paignton 14pts
Chard are away in Cornwall at Penryn next weekend for what will be another stiff test. There are just no easy fixtures in this division and all the Cornish sides are a different animal on their own patch.
Chard should have several of their missing squad available for selection next weekend but it looks as if Elliot may be out for a few weeks .
Chard team:-
Emile Szydeljko, Dylan Moss, Billy Brooks. Ben Fenton, Huw Edwards, Niall Crouch, Ross Colenso, Dave Biss, Ben Madge, David Morton, Max Gosden, Dan Goetz, Luke Carslake, Jack Elliott, Dean Richards, Replacements:- Ben Stead, Ryan Helliar, Arron Lewis ( all used)
The Chard 2nd xv game at Martock was called off owing to a shortage of referees.
Chard 2nd are at home to Yeovil 2nds next Saturday kick off 2 30pm.
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