Sat 19 Feb 2022, 14:30
WESTERN COUNTIES WEST
KINGSBRIDGE 38pts CHARD 5pts
By Glyn Hughes
Both sides had won their two previous games but it would be the Devon side that would come out on top in this encounter and there was no doubt that Kingsbridge were by far the stronger side on the day, thus gaining some sort of revenge for the defeat they suffered at Chard earlier in the season.
Despite the Chard team sheet showing eight changes from the team that had played in the October game Chard still had a more than useful squad out for this game and indeed they started the game very well and deservedly took the lead with one of their trademark plays. Their forwards proved too strong in the tight and turned over the ball before shoving Kingsbridge back over their line for a fine unconverted try with Ross Colenso adding another to his tally for the season.
The windy conditions were proving to be difficult but Kingsbridge dealt with them rather better than Chard and some of their handling in midfield was very good indeed.
The home side ran in three first half tries and managed to convert two of them so built up a comfortable 19-5 lead at the break.
Chard were not playing badly but Kingsbridge had some very powerful players and as well as moving the ball quickly they were also able to compete far better with the Chard forwards than they had done in previous games.
Chard lost the services of prop Dave Biss at the break and he was replaced by the very promising Aaron Lewis who played solidly.
Coach Jon Hendy felt that Kingsbridge had a clear edge in managing the conditions and they went further ahead with two more converted tries to lead by 33-5.
Chard responded positively and were somewhat unfortunate not to pull at least one score back but the home defence remained resolute.
Flanker Matt Tinley put in another huge shift for his team and the defensive play of centre Ben Fenton was excellent throughout. Garion Woodcock also had a very good game in the forwards and winger Dave Lock did well when he came off the bench in the second half for his debut.
A 6th unconverted try late in the game was the icing on the cake for Kingsbridge.
A somewhat disappointing day for Chard but hats off to Kingsbridge who were worthy winners. Sometimes you just have to accept that you were second best for much of the game.
Chard 1st XV have a week off from league rugby next weekend and this gap in matches has probably come at the right time for the squad who will restart their matches with a home game against
Newton Abbbot on Saturday 5th March when hopefully some players will be returning from injury to give the coaching staff some selection headaches!
The 2nd XV are away to Winscombe in a rearranged fixture from earlier in the season. 14:30 Kick off
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