seasiders edged out in tight tussle

Weston could have won this close encounter with Newent but two narrow penalty misses by centre Glenn Dickson were in the end to prove costly as a late Newent penalty secured victory.

With the elements playing a crucial role in proceedings Newent started the stronger, notably through their set scrum, and were three points to the good after ten minutes through a penalty by captain Ross Webb. The rest of the half was a war of attrition but the hosts stretched their lead with a fine chip and chase by winger Brett Gardner. Dickson immediately cut the lead with a penalty and Weston must have fancied their chances with the elements in their favour in the second period.

This feeling was enhanced when number eight Rich Bignell forced his way over following a determined period of pressure. With the scores level Dickson missed the difficult conversion before an identical miss from a penalty shot soon after. Weston were dominant in the second period but could not force another opening. The late Newent penalty resulting from a rare break out secured Weston's fate.

Newent
Try Gardner
Pens Webb 2

Weston
Try Bignell
Penalty Dickson