CHARD achieved national league status for the first time in their history with a thrilling victory 22-18 victory over Towcestrians in Northamptonshire yesterday.

Well over 100 Chard supporters made the 350 mile round trip to see their side earn a place in National Three (SW) next season when they will be playing the likes of Brixham, Barnstaple and Exmouth.

Chard: Harrison, Pennington, Douglas, Massey, Roberts, Doak, Nicholls Aplin, Jenkins, Hyslop, Henly, Gosden, Parsons, Wright, Wagstaff. Replacements Stead (for Nicholls 2m), Robinson, Biss, J Massey.