Sharks Fade in Weston

Having scored a total of only ten points in two heavy defeats against Hornets last season, Gordano were well aware that a difficult game lay ahead of them and so it was frustrating that after an impressive first half, Sharks let the initiative slip away in a tough confrontation with one of the best sides in the area.
In his first appearance this season, winger Jamie Whitfield opened the scoring after five minutes with a run from the halfway line following a strong tackle from Alex Walder to win turnover ball. Much of the play was in Gordano territory and Hornets pressed hard but quality first tackles kept them out until the 17th minute when local star Holyday broke through to even the scoreline. Almost immediately, Sharks regained the lead with a solo run from centre Walder following a midfield scrummage turnover. With Hornets continuing to apply most of the pressure, errors began to creep into the visitors play and as the first half closed a slim lead was conceded when two tries were run in from close range.
The match was still evenly poised when both teams scored after the interval, scrum half Toby Baxter bulldozing over following a quality controlled drive by the Pack. The physicality of the game intensified with a succession of injuries breaking up the play and with 20 minutes to go facing only a five point deficit, Gordano began to lose discipline and focus as Hornets cranked up the pressure exploiting handling errors, counter attacking at speed, creating overlap positions and taking every scoring opportunity. Twenty points were conceded in the final quarter as Sharks' collapse was as inexplicable as it was complete.
Whilst the final result was hugely disappointing given the performance for most of the game, credit must be given to Hornets who fielded only one reserve yet managed to maintain relentless pressure in attritional conditions. On a positive note, Number 8 Ben Anstead had an outstanding game whilst the front row of Dan Swaby, Ben Ingle and particularly Kierney Day controlled many of the scrums and new props Jay Ragoo and Hadley Stevenson-O'Shea are proving to be valuable additions. Flanker Will Magramalis put in a solid performance throughout the game and James Copeland in his first outing showed glimpses of last years pace and creativity before he was sadly injured off. Kicker Ed Moss was back on form with 100% conversion rate including a couple of very difficult angles.

HT: 19-14
FT: 46-21

Scorers
Hornets Tries: Paddy Holyday (2), Bryn Solomon, Nick Hitchens (3), Jack Higgins (2). Conv: Keane Williams (3)

Sharks Tries: Jamie Whitfield, Alex Walder, Toby Baxter. Conv: Ed Moss (3)