Western Counties West
Sidmouth 25, Chard 24

CHARD managed to get two points from this game by scoring four tries and getting a losing bonus point, writes Glyn Hughes.

In truth, they will be wondering how they managed to lose this game against the basement side, despite coach Jim Wagstaff having to make changes to an already depleted squad.

Crucially, Chard went into this game without a recognised kicker as Charlie Roberts, who had played a big part in all Chard’s close wins to date, was forced to miss his first game of the season which, arguably, was the deciding factor in the game.

Chard were a little slow to settle and Sidmouth deservedly took the lead with a try in the corner which was converted superbly by the excellent boot of Dan Retter.

Chard’s forwards started to dominate and scrum half Ross Colenso soon darted under the posts, but the conversion was missed.

Within minutes, Sidmouth increased their lead when Retter successfully goaled an effort from the half way line to make it 10-5.

The Chard forwards continued to dominate when they had the ball and it was no surprise when the referee awarded them a penalty try with a quarter of the match played to hand them the lead.

Chard were giving away a lot of penalties, however, and Retter added another three points to put Sidmouth ahead again.

The hosts increased their lead when they scored a second try following a quick tap penalty with Chard very slow to react. 

Late in the first half, Chard got themselves back in the mix when centre Matt Tinley crossed for their third try which was converted by Emile Szydelko to give the visitors a slender 19-18 lead.

In the final quarter, Chard’s forward play resulted in a bonus point but unconverted try when they shoved over from a lineout.

Chard looked capable of holding on but were then guilty of giving away another very poor try.

A kick for touch was missed and Sidmouth ran in from halfway to score wide out on the right. 

The conversion was no problem for Retter and Sidmouth were back in front 25-24.

Chard still had several opportunities to win the game but all their efforts were spoilt by some woeful handling in the last 10 minutes .

Another very disappointing result for Chard on the road but they will do their utmost to bounce back on Saturday when they host Paignton (ko 2.30).

Somerset 2S
Chard 2nd XV 74, Bridgwater 3rds 10 

THIS game was played under lights on Friday evening and full credit must be given to Bridgwater for fulfilling the fixture with only 12 players.
Somerset 3S

Somerset 3S
Taunton 3rds 74, Chard 3rds 5

CHARD knew they were in for a tough game and so it proved.

The Taunton scrum proved that skill wins over bulk early on but Chard had a very good period at the end of the first half.

The only time Chard crossed the line was after the break when Eric Singleton powered through.

Chard played well and, later, both teams settled down to watch Henley beat Taunton Titans.

Taunton invited Mike Duffy and Mark Armstrong to watch the game in the president’s box, as recognition for their man-of-the-match performance.