Seasiders fightback to claim valuable draw

Weston retained their unbeaten record against a very determined and committed Drybrook side but will feel that they used their “get out of jail free card” in order to get over the line.
Right from the kick off Drybrook set about their game at speed and with great industry. It was several minutes before Weston got any possession and when they did they used it well. They ran a number of phases and Drybrook did well to hold out against a number of charges for the try line. Eventually Weston earned a penalty and Mackay slotted the kick to give Weston a slender lead after 13 minutes of play.
Drybrook came back at Weston and earned themselves a penalty kicked by Stevenson from close range. This seemed to re-energisee the Drybrook team and they worked hard to break the Weston defence. With 25 minutes gone and after a number of phases they worked the ball wide and winger Moore got round the last man and touched down. Stevenson converted and Drybrook had a 10-3 lead.
Weston were still struggling to get good possession but did make several encouraging incursions into the Drybrook 22 but seemed unable to look after the ball and spilt their chances. They did pull back a second Mackay penalty kicked into the strongly gusting breeze. Right on the stroke of half time Drybrook got their third penalty and the half finished with Drybrook in charge and with a 7 point cushion.
Drybrook kept up the pressure at the start of the second half and earned a penalty when Webb infringed at the breakdown. This earned him a yellow card and Stevenson’s kick restored the home side’s 10 point margin.
Despite being down to 14 men and with a rearranged back line as both full back Young and winger Watkins having picked up injuries, Weston then enjoyed their best passage of play. Their scrum, which had been dominant all game, created pressure despite the referee penalising Weston when, in the view of the away supporters, it was Drybrook that had collapsed. Replacements Hill and Morrissey both had a very positive impact and working at an increased pace Weston successfully worked their way within striking range. A great cut out pass put Robbie Mackay away, but he still had plenty of work to do in scoring Weston’s try. James Mackay converted from wide out to set up a thrilling last quarter with Weston gaining ascendency and the score at 16-13.
With Weston at full strength again and with the wind at their backs they threatened to score but the Drybrook players defended wonderfully but did concede a penalty, kicked by Mackay, which brought the scores level with just 5 minutes left on the clock.
Weston’s slim hopes of snatching a win were dashed when Drybrook were awarded a penalty about 35 metres out. Stevenson stepped up to take the shot at goal, and Drybrook seemed likely to take the honours but his kick went just wide and the ref blew for no-side and the game was drawn.
To Drybrook’s great credit they played with terrific intensity and Weston looked second best for parts of the game. Weston can also take plenty of credit for holding their nerve and coming from behind so well and levelling the scores.
Weston will be working hard in training this week to address their shortcomings before facing Teignmouth at home, a game in which they will want to display better form as they seek to remain unbeaten and to ensure the title.