CHARD are in National league action again tomorrow when they entertain Newton Abbot (2pm).

Last Saturday the Chard forwards put on a really good show and high-riding Hornets - who eventually won the game 34-20 - were left to reflect that it was a good job that they made a really good start to the game.

Chard went in to the game without several regulars including number eight forward Rob Burrell who had suffered a season ending injury in the last match and they received another blow within minutes of the start when influential three quarter Ben Stead hobbled off the field having taken a knock.

Chard brought on Simon Bidgood for his 1st XV debut and he joined several others of last weeks 2nd XV who had been called up to the injury-hit squad.

Before Chard had even settled Hornets had raced in to the lead with two tries in the opening few minutes with John Zanh and Stuart Vinnecombe making the most of overlaps to cross the Chard line. James Letherby added one conversion and Hornets had a lead double that of time played.

Chard then lost a player to the bin and once again Chard paid the penalty when Alec Chase broke through for try number three.

Chard then put some pressure on the home side but unfortunately they allowed the ball to be turned over when in a good attacking position and a kick through the Chard defensive line resulted in Letherby winning the race for the touchdown.

Chard reduced the deficit with a penalty from Douglas but with half-time approaching Hornets scored again when Adam Francis crossed for another try and the home side were leading 29-3 at the break.

If the first-half had been dominated by the Hornets threequarters then the second-half was totally dominated by the Chard pack of forwards who gave the hosts a torrid time.

In their desperation to slow down the Chard pack Hornets lost a player to the bin and the seven remaining forwards just could not cope with the situation.

Chard skipper Mark Parsons who once again had a terrific game drove over for the first try and within minutes lock forward ‘Stan’ Mortensen had crossed for try number two which was converted by Douglas.

Hornets were now really under the cosh but they managed to relieve the pressure when their backs at last got hold of the ball and broke away for another try this time scored by Sam Balkham.

Chard hit back almost immediately when Parsons again showed his ability with a second try and Hornets supporters were grateful that a first-half performance had managed to give them a bonus point win.

Chard player coach Simon Jenkins who was starting a game for the first time this season following injury said afterwards in his post match comments that he was very pleased with the effort of his team particularly in the second-half and that youngster and back row forward Gabriel Riley who had been promoted from the 2nd XV in the absence of Wright and Burrell had been outstanding through out and looked to have huge potential.

He also singled out another youngster Ben Johnson for praise who at scrum half who is getting better with every appearance in the first XV.