Somerset 2S

Minehead 41, Burnham 2s 7

A CONVERTED Alex Watkins try was the solitary consolation for Burnham on the long road back from Minehead.

In what was a tough game, the visitors were overran and lacked a little bit of quality; several injuries and other commitments meant some key players were missing.

The game started off on an even keel and Burnham were holding the scrums well despite giving away a considerable weight disadvantage.

Both sides were demonstrating cohesive play moves between backs and forwards in the early exchanges it was Burnham who were the most threatening with good backs moves orchestrated between Will Conway and Lloyd Stewart.

Minehead were looking for a big runner coming in at pace to break into the defence but throughout the early encounters these were unsuccessful.

It was from an infringement that Burnham let it slip with a kickable penalty which was taken by the home side.

This brought about a bad spell for Burnham who conceded two quick tries.

Rocked into action, the visitors, spurred on by captain Matt Slater and Tiny Rees, mounted a series of counter attacks but they all broke down before any points could be registered.

The second half started as ordered with good carries from Mark O'Regan and Will Grant coming from deep; on the wings Elliot Donnelly and Nathan Smith were working hard following up.

After a considerable period of pressure Watkins was able to break in with a fine try, converted by Will Conway to get Burnham on the board.

Minehead were, with the aid of the new substitutes, able to exploit the gaps in the visitors defence brought about by the persistent attacking and increased their lead considerably.