Drybrook 1st XV Match Report
16th September - Gloucestershire Premier League
Drybrook 15pts Avonmouth Old Boys 3pts
Drybrook continued their good start to the season with this latest victory over a committed and skilful visiting team. The home team got off to the best possible start when player/coach Julian Horrobin dropped a goal inside the first minute from the unaccustomed position of outside half. Avonmouth came straight back and subjected the home side to a considerable amount of pressure but the defence was good and Drybrook were able to keep them out. Drybrook hardly got out of their own half for nearly 20 minutes and should have conceded a try when Avonmouth’s centre broke through but the ball was dropped in the process of touching down. Eventually Avonmouth deservedly drew level with a penalty on 30 minutes. Drybrook’s set piece play was letting them down but they always looked dangerous on the break and from one such attack they regained the lead when centre Steve Skelton was up in support to receive the inside pass before touching down.
The second half was just as tight and for 30 minutes neither side looked able to break the deadlock. Drybrook had the opportunity to add to their score through penalty awards but the lack of a recognised goal kicker was costing them dearly. It fell to Horrobin to make the game safe when he chipped ahead and gathered the awkward bounce before racing 30 metres for the try. Steve Skelton converted Horrobin’s try and this gave Drybrook the breathing space they needed to open the game up but they were unable to add to their score. For Drybrook back row men Neil Morgan and Pete Meek were particularly prominent whilst out behind winger Carl Moore looked dangerous on the few occasions he was given a bit of space.
Drybrook team: Dave Payne, Jamie Roberts, Steve Skelton, Leon Meek, Carl Moore, Julian Horrobin, Danny Griffiths, Tom Reed (Capt), Clive Boughton, Scott Phelps, John Duffin, Jim Hillcoat, Craig Moore, Neil Morgan, Pete Meek. Replacements ; Simon Ballinger, Andy Jones, Chris Rawlings.
A Railings Production©