Western Counties West
Chard 38, Tiverton 0

AFTER a heavy defeat at St Ives last weekend, Chard showed they are a different team on their own turf with this comprehensive win against Tiverton, writes Glyn Hughes.

Chard missed a few eminently kickable penalties early on but eventually got on the scoreboard with an outstanding try which originated in their own half. 

Back row forward Gab Riley tidied up a long kick downfield from Tiverton before sending the ball out to full-back Ben Stead. 

Stead made an excellent break down the right before off-loading to Ross Colenso, who then passed inside to Scott Johnson who took the ball on the burst and went over for a magnificent try. 

Charlie Roberts added the conversion points.

Chard initiated another move down the blindside a few minutes later and Billy Biss raced through for what turned out to be the first of his three tries.

This time Emile Szydelko stepped up to add the extra points.
Chard should really have scored again before half-time but some basic handling errors and a tendency to give away unnecessary penalties with ill-discipline did not help their cause.

Chard started the second half well on top and missed several early opportunities to go further ahead as well as losing Riley to the bin for foul play.

However, a penalty goal from Roberts did eventually put them further ahead.

This score appeared to really ignite Chard and a catch-and-drive move from a lineout resulted in Biss going over for his second try with Roberts again successfully kicking the conversion.

Chard were now fully focused on getting a bonus point and this came when Biss went over for his third try with Roberts again adding the extras.

Szydelko had a try disallowed but, with Chard well on top, it was no surprise when Luke Hill crossed for a fifth converted try.

Chard, with only one away win in the past year, really need to transfer their home form to the road and have a chance to improve their poor record when they travel to face Torquay Athletic on Saturday (ko 2.30pm).

CHARD 2nd XV had a much-needed win when they travelled to Glastonbury and beat the hosts 20-0. On Saturday they are at home to Wells (ko 2.30pm).

In Somerset 3S, Chard 3rds host Wincanton (also ko 2.30pm).