Western Counties West
Burnham-on-Sea 13, Chard 31

CHARD made it two wins in a row with a very competent display against the only other Somerset team in the division.

The win was also significant in that it was the first victory of any kind that Chard have had away from their Park Road base for 21 months - this was against Coney Hill in Gloucester on December 19, 2015!

The game started in near perfect conditions, but Chard were guilty of a number of infringements and Burnham took a three point lead with their first kickable penalty. 

Skipper Ryan Helliar rallied his troops and Chard gradually got on top with some fine forward play, which was rewarded when Joe Mainwaring went over for the first try which was converted by Charlie Roberts.

The promising Mainwaring soon crossed for his second try, though this time the conversion was missed, but Burnham raised their game and pulled things back to 8-12 with a deserved try.

The Burnham forwards had no answer to the power of the Chard pack, however, and unsurprisingly the referee awarded Chard a penalty try following a series of infringements to open up a 19-8 lead.

The Chard backs were playing their part in a good team display and, after good work from Ben Stead, Luke Hill crossed for his first try in 1st XV league rugby which ensured a four try bonus point for Chard, who went into half-time 24-8 up.

Burnham certainly upped their game in the second half and scored an unconverted try almost straight from the restart. 

However, the Chard defensive play was very good and much of the second half was evenly contested.

In the latter stages of the game Burnham had a player sent to the bin and Chard took advantage, making use of their extra man to force Max Gosden over the line for their fifth try which was converted by Roberts as the visitors ran out 31-13 winners.

Next Saturday Chard have a home fixture against Kingsbridge, kicking off at 3pm. 

Somerset Two South.
Chard 2nd XV 7, Castle Cary 24

A VERY young and enthusiastic Chard side played well, but the greater experience of the visiting team in the end proved the difference between the sides.

Next Saturday Chard 2nds are away at Burnham and Chard 3rds begin their season against Cheddar.