Saturday saw Bridport 1st XV away to Blandford 1st XV, another team that has struggled with numbers, having just had to fold their 2nd XV due to lack of numbers. Leaving their 1sts now with a good-sized squad to the Blues disadvantage.
The first quarter of the game was very evenly matched with neither team shining above the other, with only a penalty to Blandford for a high tackle, which they quickly notched up 3 points. The second quarter Bridport took their eye off the game, especially being slow on the breakdown to support their ball carrier. Blandford were very quick to realise the weakness and put on 4 tries of which they converted 3 giving them a healthy lead at the half time whistle.
The second half Bridport were putting more into their defence and Blandford started making a few mistakes under pressure, and Nathan Herbert was very quick to collect 5 points on a loose ball in the opposition half. This was later followed by more Blandford penalties with the Blues keeping the pressure up on their line with numerous phases they were rewarded with another 5 points when Ayorinde Fraser went over the line backed up by Nathan Herbert.
Final score: Blandford – 47, Bridport – 10.
With Bridport still hurting from injuries to players earlier in the season it was good to have two new players having their first run out with the first team. William Joynes adding his weight and size to the scrum which performed well on the day, and coming up from the Colts for his initiation to the higher level Oscar Tomkins played a solid game on the wing.
Bridport are now looking forward to their twice postponed game with Salisbury 2nds next Saturday at the Brewery Ground with kick off at 14:15.
Following the well supported 6 nations games the previous week there should be a full house as England take on Wales in Cardiff.
