Seasiders late score secures important victory

Weston gathered their first away win of the season with a bonus point win in a very close and thrilling encounter.

Weston started well against the home side and pressed their early advantage and a neat pass to Watkins after rapidly recycled ball resulted in the in form winger touching down under the posts. Dickson’s conversion gave Weston an early 0-7 lead.

Weston were unable to maintain momentum and the home side executed a well worked backs move and their full back scored a try which was converted to level the scores.

On 15 minutes Weston were pressing again and after quick ball from the forwards Weston moved the ball rapidly to the left wing and Watkins rounded the defence to score his second try which was converted from the touchline by Dickson .

Further sustained pressure from Weston brought Weston a penalty advantage and with time and space available Dickson attempted a drop goal which sailed through the uprights. With the score at 7-17 Weston might have hoped to turn the screw but Exmouth were experienced and skilful enough to seize an opportunity, split the defence and score a converted try and the first half closed with Weston in front by just 5 points.

Weston seemed to take their foot off the gas at the start of the second half, and despite playing into the wind Exmouth created two good chances from which they scored and took Weston by surprise as they opened up a nine point lead.
The Weston players needed a quick response to giving away their lead and thy worked with great determination and put Exmouth under siege and the result was a try for Robbie Mackay, on his fiftieth first team appearance. The conversion from Dickson brought Weston within 2 points and just a few minutes later following a penalty which took Weston deep into Exmouth’s 22 and good follow up work Weston regained possession and a rapid move toward the opposite wing saw Dickson cross for Weston’s bonus point try. Dickson converted his own try and Weston were in front once more.

They held they led for only four minutes as the home side responded with terrific energy and forced their way over scoring a converted try.
Weston might have been down hearted but they tore back at Exmouth and they drove at the heart of the Exmouth defence. The ref indicated a penalty and Weston played advantage but could not make ground. Dickson stepped up and slotted the penalty to give Weston a one point lead with two minutes of normal time remaining. Exmouth pressed again but their discipline let them down and Weston were awarded a penalty and the game finished with Weston just about deserving their victory.

This bonus point win lifts Weston to 10th place in SW Premier and they will be hoping to retain their winning form at home next week to Lydney, and advance further up the league table.

Match report courtesy of Andy Ballard