2 Mar 2008 - Somerset Cup V's Wellington

For probably the first time, N&B were faced with a side who, man for man, were bigger in both forwards and backs.  The hosts kicked off down the slope and soon built an attacking position.  From a 5 metre scrum, No 8 Elliott Cheesright picked and drove before the ball was moved wide where supporting flanker Jonny Obree was on hand to score a fine try.  N&B continued to pressurise with speedking Troy Atkinson time again being hauled down or bundled into touch by the Wellington cover.  Twice Mackenzie McCormick came within feet of the whitewash, however the creaking Wellington line held firm.  In a victory for strength and technique over size, props Will Tobin, Nasher and hooker Jack McCormick took several strikes against the head to deny Wellington possession. Half time arrived with the score 5 – 0 to N&B.

Playing up the slope, N&B initially weathered the Wellington onslaught, winger Ben Marshall making several vital tackles. A loose clearance kick was punished as Wellington counter attacked and duly ran in a good try to even the scores at 5 -5.   Nailsea responded immediately, with strong runs from fullback Myles Pillay and lock Mark Wilson, however the Wellington defence held firm. A couple of missed tackles then allowed Wellington to strike the killer blow, with a fine individual try under the sticks, 5 – 12 to Wellington. Atkinson went close again in the final play, however N&B will rue their missed chances in the first half that could have won the game. Nonetheless, a great game of rugby and a fine effort against a big, well drilled side, boasting several Somerset U 14 players.