Christmas Challenge
Chard Veterans 24, Crewkerne Veterans 5

CHARD Veterans turned out for the traditional Boxing Day game with a team with players aged from 35 to 62 to take on their counterparts from Crewkerne.

A large crowed turned out to cheer on both teams and weren't disappointed with the display on the pitch.

Chard kicked off and had the hill to deal with in the first half, with the action being played up to each team's 22 but not beyond as both appeared to be equally matched.

The deadlock was broken on 35 minutes with Chard putting the ball through the hands and forcing an error, allowing Andrew McKerow to power through for an unconverted try.

The restart looked good for Chard as they advanced towards the try line with pace but some superb slight of hand gave Crewkerne the chance to clear out, and then a kick put them on the Chard 5m line.

A lineout and a drive through to the line from Crewkerne meant it was all square at 5-5 at half time.

Chard received the kick-off and Jason Hole ran through a number of tackles and set a good foundation for Chard's next attack led by captain Brian Sugar.

The patient build-up soon paid off, with a free-kick to Chard being used to send Mick Duffy over for a try converted by Timmy Glenn.

Chard had their tails up and again worked steadily towards the Crewkerne line.

They switched play to allow Neil Henley to score his debut try to make the score 19-5.

Chard were determined not to let the home team get back into the game and, with a change of front row with Keith Milton taking up the prop's role for the first time, things stayed solid.

In keeping with the season, Richard Hall joined the game for the hosts dressed as a pantomime horse making some fine gallops up the wing.

Chard finished the game with a final try, again with some fantastic build-up allowing Tom Hopkins to cross the line.

Both teams would like to thank referee Dave Connolly-Mealing for taking control of the game and Abigail and Jane for running the line.