BRIDPORT 7 BOURNEMOUTH 29

BACK in September Bridport enjoyed a comfortable win over Bournemouth Thirds but, since then, the latter have only lost one other game and lie third in the table, writes Adrian Everitt.

They got their revenge on Saturday, beating Bridport 7-29 in a match that was notable for the truly awful weather conditions.

It was a credit to both sides that they served up some entertaining rugby in driving rain and a howling gale.

With the wind at their backs Bournemouth were quickly into their stride, winning a penalty in Bridport’s half, kicking for touch and setting up a driving maul from the lineout.

This proved irresistible and a try was scored in the corner. The conversion was missed.

The play went to and fro with Bournemouth especially trying to play an expansive game.

Many handling errors ensued but eventually their ambition was rewarded with a try under the posts as Bridport’s defence was wrong-footed.

The conversion was also made.

Bridport staged some attacks of their own but, once the ball went loose, regaining possession became a lottery in the muddy conditions.

Bournemouth profited from one such breakdown to score a breakaway try. The conversion was missed.

The Blues then finished the first half strongly, replacement Tony Herbert crossing the line with his first touch, after a tap and go penalty. The ball was adjudged to have been held up however.

There was better fortune in the second half as Bournemouth failed to clear their lines following some strong Bridport pressure. The hosts secured the loose ball and some deft handling released Nathan Herbert who produced a neat sidestep to score. Will Everitt added the conversion to make it 17-7.

Bournemouth responded with two more tries and one conversion though to emerge worthy winners.

This Saturday, Bridport visit League leaders Yeovil.