South West 1
Chard 35, Teignmouth 24

CHARD came out on top after a really entertaining game with both sides throwing the ball around at every opportunity, writes Glyn Hughes.

The visitors missed an early penalty in front of the posts before Chard took the lead with a try from Will Hopkinson, following an excellent catch and drive from a lineout, which Nannie Oesman converted.

The home side were then gifted two tries by their opponents, as over-expansive play by the Teignmouth backs resulted in two very timely interceptions by Chard, which resulted in Oesman and then Taalieb Johnson crossing for a try apiece.

Oesman added the extras and with only 20 minutes played, Chard were in a great position, leading 21-0.

Chard were playing really well at this point but shortly before the break they were pegged back when initially Lidstone and then Luffman crossed for tries.

Those two scores brought the competitive and rapidly improving Teignmouth team right back into the encounter.

Winger Laventure, who did not have the best of afternoons with the boot, added one conversion and the interval arrived with the hosts Chard holding a much more precarious 21-12 advantage.

Ten minutes into the second half Chard were attacking in style but lost the ball after some wild handling and were caught out by a clever kick ahead, which the impressive Luffman made the most of to go over for his second try of the day.

His score was converted by Laventure, and Teignmouth were now within two points of the lead.

The visitors then went ahead for the first time in the match when flanker Patterson drove over, and at this point they looked good value for their 24-21 advantage.

Chard, however, ended the game as they had started it and really clicked into gear in the final quarter.

Johnson got his second try and Blok Siljeur finished things off with a typically brilliant individual effort.

Oesman, who had a perfect day with the boot, converted both tries to give Chard a fine victory in what was an excellent match.

Chard will be particularly pleased with the efforts of their very young front row squad in this game, and they finished up with three players aged 20 or under on the field.

Hooker Ben Robinson, who played excellently throughout before being substituted late in the game, also showed that he has really improved his all-round game with some lovely passing and strong running.

With another good performance at home, Chard will be wondering why they have been unable to produce the same on their travels with poor away results ultimately costing them their place in South West 1 West.

Having been relegated, Chard will play next season in probably either Western Counties West or Western Counties North, although even Southern Counties is a possibility.

Of the three the understanding is that the club would prefer the WCN because it will apparently mean slightly less travelling, but the WCW is probably a more attractive league.

But it is all subjective and the final decision will be made by SWRFU and will no doubt depend on the relegation and promotions from the other leagues involved after the playoff matches have taken place.

***

CHARD 2nd XV, who have had an up and down season, finished on a high with a resounding 72-12 win at Midsomer Norton, and they will certainly be looking to improve on their mid-table spot next season.

The club awards dinner was held at the weekend with Thomas (Tank) Waldron of Exeter Chiefs the main guest.

The club AGM is being held tomorrow (Thursday, April 27) at 7pm.