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North Petherton 13 Weston 29

NORTH Petherton captain Damian Griffin said it was ‘the same old story’ for his side after they were beaten 29-13 by Weston despite another hard-working performance, writes Simon Freeman.

Mike Stevens and Jack Kohler scored first-half tries for Pethy to send them into the break 14-13 down – but the high-flying visitors pulled away in the second-half, to leave Pethy empty-handed.

Griffin said: "It seems to be the same old story - we put in a lot of hard work but have nothing to show for it.

“We tried to play rugby and gifted two interceptions which counted for 12 points.

“They had a strong set of forwards and we did our best to keep it away from them.

“I was pleased with us defensively apart from the obvious.

“We tried a few positional changes which worked well and now it’s a case of sticking to it.

“I couldn't have asked for much more from the guys on the pitch it was just unfortunate our mistakes cost us so dearly.

“We will continue to work hard.”

Weston made a dream start after an interception from just outside their 22 saw George Sparks run in their first try.

The visitors held supremacy in the forwards and made Pethy battle for possession, extending the lead with two penalties from Lomax to move the score to 0-11.

On 20 minutes Pethy found some fluidity and moved the ball swiftly only to be met with some resolute defending - Weston crept offside and Harry Roberts converted 3-11.

Pethy shifted up a gear and after a strong break from Gavin Hancock, opposite winger Mike Stevens picked up the ball 60 metres out to sprint clear and beat the last man to score in the corner.

However, the good work was spoilt as immediately Pethy gave away another penalty and Lomax converted for 8-14.

Pethy regrouped and some strong drives from the forwards put them in striking distance, before a quick tap penalty by Jack Kohler saw him power his way over.

But history repeated itself as Weston again replied straight away, but this time in the form of a converted try from Webb.

The second-half was similar to the first with both team having opportunities but Weston being more clinical.

The tackling was solid from both teams and in the freezing conditions, both teams still managed to throw the ball around.

Weston put more breathing space between the sides with another penalty and Pethy still created chances, but regrettably, dropped balls halted any momentum.

In the last few minutes Weston scored their final try to close the game out.