CHARD got a much-needed win when they comfortably defeated bottom club Old Sulians in Bath on Saturday.

Chard went to Bath with a stronger squad than in recent weeks with long term absentees Alan Henly, Jon Hendy and Johnny Porter all returning to the squad although Matt Ousley and Ben Stead were not available.

Coach Steve Broome got his team well prepared for the match and flanker Roger Summers commented afterwards that the spirit amongst the squad both on and off the field was first class.

With things very tight in the lower half of the league where any one of five teams could still join the already doomed Sulians this game was a potential banana skin and it was vital that Chard did not slip up against a side that had nothing to lose.

Chard played down the slight slope in the first half and started the game strongly with their forwards dominating proceedings.

Chards forward superiority paid handsome dividends with Jim Wagstaff and Mark Parsons going over for early tries both of which were converted by Paul Nicholls.

Sulians hit back with a converted try of their own but Chard went further ahead with another touchdown from Nicholls which he converted himself which give Chard a comfortable 21-7 half-time advantage.

Chard prop Chris Bond was yellow carded following increasing frustration at the referees’ interpretations of various situations which included the awarding of a penalty try to the home side as well as Chards most vocal supporter being asked to quieten down!

However, despite this, Chard were by far the better side throughout the match and they went further ahead with an excellent try from winger Chris Doel. Nicholls completed the scoring with his second try of the game which he also converted to give himself a personal total of 18 points in the game.

Coach Broome commented in a post-match interview that he was pleased that the team played to their strengths and stuck well to the game plan but he also stated that it was clear the team had to work had to improve their handling which cost them further points.

Despite this fine result Chard will still have to be on their guard because Wells managed to gain a surprise victory against promotion-chasing North Petherton and now only four points separate the five clubs above Sulians.

Chard have five games to play – four at home – and have a game in hand against their rivals. But Chard are currently the highest placed side among the group although they do have the worst points difference.

Chard start their run in with a home fixture against Bristol Harlequins this Saturday, kick off 2.30pm. On paper this looks like a tough fixture against a top four side but Chard are confident they have the ability to beat any team at home and are looking forward to the challenge.

Chard 2nd XV do not have league game this week but may look for a game from the ‘pool’.