Fast start for Gordano

Despite lots of possession and field position, the first 20 minutes were scoreless. Gordano squandered lots of scoring opportunities that they really should have capitalised upon. Pat Mayer and Tim Statton were again outstanding at foraging and putting Minehead under pressure when they had the ball.

Inevitably the pressure told, and Gordano crossed the line. First half scores from Tom Harris, Ash Cotrall and Mike Yandall were added to kicks from Joe Rowsall to give the home side a 25-0 lead at half time.

The second half target appeared to be confirming the win and ensuring a fourth try for the bonus point. The game disintegrated with Minehead committing many penalties.

In the 60th minute the tempers of the Minehead players spilled over when a well aimed punch to the head of veteran prop Andy Peterson was spotted by the referee who sent the offender off. Peterson required several stitches to as a result.

Gordano, who had maintained excellent discipline throughout the game, wilted in the final 10 minutes and started conceding penalty after penalty. The referee lost patience and started brandishing yellow cards. No fewer than three Sharks players were in the sin bin at the final whistle.

With a score line of 25-10, Gordano must rue missed opportunities that cost them a valuable bonus point.