Match Report: 2 February 2008

Bath Old Edwardians Somerset 2 North survival is back in their own hands after a narrow 14 - 10 home victory over Midsomer Norton. Norton are now only one point ahead in the table but with only four league games left in the season including this return fixture OE's win was crucial in their battle for league survival. But it was Norton who took control early on as OE's took their time to get into the game.

Two soft tries conceded by OE's in the first quarter was certainly a wake up call and skipper Guy Levell's inspired words behind the sticks after the second try kick started OE's into playing their brand of rugby. The front row of Andrew Charlton, Andy Fill and Mike Vincent fronted up to their opposite numbers and were instrumental in securing ball at the set pieces. And with Ben Jelly controlling the line out and openside flanker Ali Harlow rampant in loose play OE's had plenty of possession but failed to put any points on the board so at the turnaround they were 10 - 0 down but were by then the more assured team.

This momentum carried through to the second half where good use of quick ball at the breakdowns by OE's kept the pressure on Norton and some great passages of play through several phases resulted in number 8 Levell scoring a well deserved try. OE's now had their tails up and were playing a more controlled game and some superb handling from the backs allowed winger Rich Morris to dive over for OE's second try. Ex semi-pro footballer Stuart Earle slotted the conversion from out wide to take the score to 14 - 10. With 25 minutes left on the clock the score was to remain unchanged. Norton came close in the latter stages of the game but OE's defense was solid and they held on for a well taken win.

OE's also face Bristol Harlequins in the final run in who are just two points above them but OE's have a far superior points difference. And with three wins in their last four games, including beating Somerset 1 side Old Culverhaysians in the Bath Combination Cup OE's must carry on their run of form. Skipper Levell was pragmatic 'It was crucial to get a win today but we know our fate lies in the remaining league matches. We have some big games in the next few weeks and although we avoid the top four teams in the run in we play teams who are equally set on avoiding the drop which should make for some very exciting matches'.

And as it appeared in the Bath Chronicle...