Late rally too late for Bridgnorth
A late rally proved in vain as Bridgnorth went down to a narrow 29-26 defeat at Sandbach in the Midlands Premier.
The immaculate playing surface and extremely large pitch lended itself to open running rugby and attempts by both sides to get the ball out wide were met with some resolute tackling in midfield.
Sandbach got on the scoreboard with a well-struck penalty, but Llew Williams countered and added another to put the visitors 6-3 ahead. Another exchange of penalties saw Sandbach level before Bridgnorth went back in front.
Then the Sandbach forwards took over and trundled Bridgnorth back for 15 yards for a pushover try under the posts and simple conversion.
A few minutes later a dominant lineout and another forward drive brought a second pushover try to leave the All-Blacks trailing 18-9.
Another penalty from Sandbach was countered by one from Williams. But yet another penalty followed by an unconverted try put the hosts 29-12 ahead.
Gareth Bladen came off to give the promising young Addison a chance and Bridgnorth started to get their act together with a good forwards try awarded to Ed John, converted by Williams.
Williams then scored under the posts and converted it himself but, for the second week running, Bridgnorth were on the wrong end of a tight scoreline.
