3rd XV Merit Table Leyhill 7 Thornbury 3rds 32 THORNBURY made the short trip to HMP Leyhill for the usual fast and physical game.

Thorns applied pressure during the first quarter but Leyhill's defence held firm until fly-half Matt Belbin scored a fine individual try to give Thorns a 5-0 lead.

Whilst Thorns were in control of the game and their opposition penalised repeatedly for infringements, it was not until five minutes from half-time that the next score came when prop Dave Mead crashed over for a try which Belbin converted to make the score 12-0 to the visitors.

In the dying minutes of the half Belbin slotted a penalty to take the score at the break to 15-0.

The first score of the second half went to Leyhill after 5 minutes when the referee awarded them a penalty try following a messy last ditch tackle by Thorns centre Matt Pritchard.

This earned Pritchard a yellow card and he became the first third team player this season to be sent to the 'bin' for 10 minutes. To his credit Pritchard admitted that his legs did get involved in the tackle. With the conversion a formality Leyhill were back in the game at 15-7 down.

Thorns extended their lead within five minutes when centre James Crabtree scored near the posts for Belbin to add the extras through the conversion and Thorns were 22-7 up.

Thorns continued to apply pressure but there appeared to be reluctance on the part of some players to pass the ball, which resulted in the breakdown of moves. However, midway through the half wing Trevor Sergeant used his power on the touchline to score in the corner to take Thorns ahead to 27-7.

With five minutes to go replacement flanker Rob Holloway, returning after injury, scored a try to make the final score 32-7.

In the pack hooker Mark Sullivan was always in the thick of the action and number eight Matt Tewkesbury made a number of storming runs. Amongst the backs Adam Weaver was outstanding, starting at fly half and then moving to scrum half, playing equally well in both positions.

Manager Howard Bowker commented: "It was good to get another Merit Table victory under our belts and we were always in control of the game.

"However, on occasions certain players felt reluctant to pass which led to missed scoring opportunities. We have a fine blend of youth and experience which plays rugby which is good to watch."

Next week Thorns are home to Imperial 3rds in a friendly game that will give some players chance to practice their passing skills.