Cheltenham North 36 - 45 Nailsea & Backwell
As the freezing weather kick in, Nailsea’s game vs Cheltenham North was moved to the new AGP pitch at Cheltenham Tigers.
This was a huge advantage to the hosts who boasted 10 Fijian British Army players who were to prove to enjoy the fast open track!
The Ravens started well with Dec Hay scoring from a good drive by the forwards, Alex Jones converting.
That was to be as good as it got for Nailsea in the first half as Aquila Koroitamana, CauCau Sisa, Savenaca Naresia and Jale Bakani scored tries for North with Jade Latola converting three times and adding a penalty.
The Ravens had to dig deep and show some character but they’ve been in difficult spots before so they are side that don’t panic.
Dec Hay got his second try with a great driving lineout from the forwards and Ciaran Askew with a short range effort brought the half time score to 21-26.
Strong Leadership from Luke Sharp and Alex Jones were needed for the second half and that is exactly what was delivered.
With a more direct, set piece orientated game plan in the second half, the Ravens came out of the blocks flying. Lewis Adams-Hoon scoring after Jonty Marshall and Dickie Palmer counter attacked a loose kick. George Stirling added another try from more good maul play and Ben Perfect rounded off a good win for the Ravens in difficult circumstances.
The Man of the Match was Ciaran Askew (who is kindly sponsored by Brakes Cider).
Nailsea & Backwell sit 4th in Western Counties 1 and host Chipping Sodbury next week in their final game before Christmas.
