Western Counties West
Wadebridge 17, Chard 12

IN monsoon conditions, Chard played with the elements in the first half, writes Glyn Hughes.

Very good carries and ball retention by the Chard pack meant they had the majority of possession in the opening period, as the Chard scrum was solid and the players were confident with the ball in hand.

A high tackle from player/coach Jim Wagstaff gave away a penalty which Wadebridge kicked to touch. 

The resulting lineout was won and they caught and drove over the try line to score the only points in the first half and, with the try being converted, Wadebridge led 7-0 at the break.

After the interval, Wadebridge broke a few tackles down the left wing and scored a second try which, although unconverted, gave them a 12-point advantage. 

Chard came back strongly and carried the ball as they did in the first half, and powered over the line with several forwards claiming the unconverted try, which belonged to Joe Mainwaring. 

Just as Chard were getting on top, Wadebridge counter-attacked well and scored their third try in the corner. 

The try was unconverted but Chard now trailed 17-5.

With five minutes remaining Chard, who deserved to rescue something from the game, scored when a quick tap from Bill Biss saw him break through two tackles to go over under the posts. 

Charlie Roberts kicked the conversion to secure a losing bonus point which was the least Chard deserved in this battle.

On Saturday, Chard have a tough home match against second-placed St Austell (ko 3pm).