YATTON R F C - WESTERN COUNTIES (NORTH) League

Media Contact – Tony Watkins Tel/Fax 01275 – 875944 E-Mail ‘tony@awwandco.com

Saturday 31^st March 2007 (League Match)

Yatton vs Barton Hill

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‘Barts 6/8 combo spoil Yats day’

Yatton’s ambition of finishing outright winners of the League was set back a notch last Saturday. They were beaten by a well drilled Barton Hill who were powerful and very streetwise in close quarter forwards play. Anticipation was high among supporters on this the Presidents Day, being the last home league match of the season, with the RFU’s Disciplinary Official and Council Member being senior guest at the pre-match luncheon as well as the game being a significant top of the table clash. Barton Hill having won the match on their home ground very early in the season and until this game Yatton being undefeated at home in the league.

But from the start omens did not look good for the homeside. Over 500 spectators, some recently converted from football, watched in total amazement that at this level of rugby a game could start with the Referee, apparently from Bristol, wearing exactly the same colours in practically the same pattern as the visiting side. Five minutes into the game, at a breakdown in play, a neutral colour shirt was taken to the Referee, he being seemingly unaware and so it continued.

Despite having the strong wind in their favour, it was the home side who found themselves down by a try within the first six minutes. Barton Hill’s wing Russ Baker, having grounded the ball from a developed maul in the corner.

Shortly after Yatton managed 15 minutes within Barton Hill’s 22, but the visitors defended well, and the second omen occurred of a ball carrying Yatton player unfortunately bouncing off the post protector at one point. Barts pack power dictated by Steer at No. 6 and Patten at No. 8 made the major difference and Yatton failed to use the wind when it mattered.

Ten minutes into the second half Yatton had a player yellow carded but the wind spoiled Barts consecutive penalty conversion opportunities.

As the wind continued with a momentary heavy squall the 60 minute penalty try against Yatton, and conversion added to their problems. Matt Richards added a penalty five minutes later.

The long distance over kicking by Barts did give Yatton some added chances but it was just not their day. The second penalty try and conversion finished Barts whitewash and season double over Yatton.

Village boys Yatton will no doubt aim to ‘finish the job’ when they travel to 3^rd placed Stroud on Saturday 14^th April.