Tribute South West One West

North Petherton 23 Bideford 13

NORTH Petherton produced their most spirited display of the season against a good Bideford side, who pounded away at the home teams’ line for a large part of the second half, writes Simon Freeman.

Pethy made an impressive start from the first whistle and used the forwards to make ground robustly, which forced a penalty for Harry Roberts to slot over.

Bideford played their way back in to the game and created their own chances, but Pethy tackled strongly throughout.

Pethy began to play with variety and were rewarded when the backs orchestrated some space for winger, Gavin Hancock, to speed over - Roberts added the extras.

Bideford again responded and played their way into the Pethy 22, and Olly Wickett kicked a penalty for 10-3.

Pethy immediately hit back with a Roberts penalty, after more good work from the forwards - and soon after, Hancock went on a mazy 40-yard run to score. Roberts kicked the conversion.

The remainder of the first belonged to Bideford, who battled for everything and were rewarded with a Dave Evans try just before half time 20-8.

The second half was a titanic battle, with Bideford having the majority of possession and Pethy working overtime in defence.

The first score of the half was a Roberts penalty to extend the lead.

But from then on, Bideford attacked but Pethy kept their discipline and concentration during long periods in their 22.

Bideford crossed again to narrow the scores, but Pethy showed the spirit to hold on and gain four very valuable points.

Captain Damian Griffin said: “There was a massive buzz with the whole squad as soon as we met at the club, and everyone was positive about the game ahead from a good week of training - and it showed on the pitch.

“We knew we had to set the tempo on our terms, which we did perfectly and then had to maintain it - we thrived off that, making us better as the game went on.

“It was the strongest team we had all season, as many players were back from injury and having Arron Gibbs back with is was a huge boost and he definitely made an impact.

“Our defence was solid and they found it tough to break us down, and it looked like we enjoyed the defensive part of the game.

“A huge team effort to get that win and we are excited for the next few games to come.”