Nailsea & Backwell 15 v Gordano U15

Another week, another local derby. After a tightly fought opening set of phases from both hosts and visitors the deadlock was broken by a line out interception from Kody Golding to open Gordano's scoring on the right hand 5m line. Nailsea's spirited response was countered by strong scrambling defence with birthday boy Finn Rowland to the fore, and an Isaac Barr break out try from his own 22m line down the left to go under the posts, converted by Macey King to take the score to 12 nil.

The remainder of the first half was a high spirited encounter with every ball fought for. The third try by No. 8 Oliver Heaven from 10m out taking three defenders with him followed great effort from the whole pack with two strikes against the head to the visitors. A smooth backs move with good handling led to a fourth try making pass by Ethan Sefton to set up Ethan Ando (conv Sam Chigbo). Pinned down in their half Nailsea & Backwell finished the first half 31 points down after a second Ando try.

Isaac Barr (conv Chigbo) opened the second half scoring with a fluid backs move supported by slick passing and great depth and pace from Ethan Sefton. For a period Gordano defended strongly against a Nailsea & Backwell fightback. Minutes later Gordano took up camp in the host's 22. Strong go forward and a well-timed pass from Kody left Ethan Ando to cross for his third try of the morning to push the score to 43 nil.

A fierce finish was peppered with inventive play from all the Gordano players. Numerous Gordano players touched the ball and with Isaac Barr unselfishly drawing the last defender the pass to Macey King try kept the scoreboard ticking. The hosts pushed for a score but Gordano's defensive wall held firm. Nailsea & Backwell didnt allow Gordano to rest with ferocious tackling and driving play from their forwards but with Gordanos forwards always looking to turnover posession, Sam Chigbo stole a ball and took off downfield from his own half, well supported by Kody to pass to Isaac Barr to score in the last play of the game.

The convincing 53-nil victory was founded on strength in all areas of play. Dominant scrummaging and lineout work provided a platform for the back line whose passing and depth continues to improve. A commitment to the tackle was seen across the squad of 16 and despite the hosts determination and commitment, Gordano's organisation and closing down of space enabled them to record their first win and first clean sheet of the season.