Western Counties West
Sidmouth 44, Chard 17

CHARD slipped back into the relegation zone after going down to another away defeat, this time against leaders Sidmouth on Saturday, writes Glyn Hughes.

The loss was made worse by results from elsewhere – both Winscombe and Paignton getting the wins that they needed to go above Chard in the table.

The game was evenly contested in the opening quarter, until Luke Wells-Burr went over for his first of a hat-trick of tries.

Further tries from Rory O’Brien and Wells-Burr, plus several successful kicks from O’Brien, put Sidmouth well ahead, before Chard were awarded a penalty try after the home scrum was penalised for illegal play.

A good patch of play by the hosts early in the second half put the result beyond Chard, but they rallied well and hooker Joe Mainwaring forced his way over from a lineout.

Full-back Charlie Roberts also got across the Sidmouth line, but this was a disappointing day for the visitors despite scoring three tries.

Chard have another tough game this Saturday, when they entertain promotion contenders St Austell (ko 2.30pm).

However, Chard’s form at home has been in complete contrast to that shown on their travels, so they should be positive about getting a result.

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Somerset 2 South
Chard 2nds 7, Yeovil 2nds 33

CHARD’S Wing Commanders saw their good mid-season spell come to an end with defeat to a Yeovil side they had beaten earlier in the season.

Chard remain fifth in the table, and on Saturday they travel to Somerton (ko 2.30pm).

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Somerset 3 South
Wincanton 31, Chard 3rds 14

WINCANTON hosted Chard 3rds for the penultimate game of the season, which proved to be a good contest.

The home side had the advantage of the slope in the first half, and despite Chard tackling well and Chris Doel running the show at scrum-half, Wincanton went over for four first-half tries.

After the interval, began the task of eating into the hosts’ advantage, and Doel crossed for a try which was converted by Kevin George.

Gavin Smillie made it over the line but was held up, yet Chard maintained the pressure and Keith Milton spotted a gap to dive over, George again converting.

But against the run of play Wincanton scored the final try of the game to seal a 31-14 win.

Chard’s man of the match was Keith Milton for his solid work in attack and defence, and for scoring his debut try.

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CHARD Ladies were again left without a game on Sunday, being awarded a walkover win against Winscombe, who were unable to raise a side.

Chard are due to host Withycombe on Sunday, March 17.