Tough test in tricky conditions

Midsomer Norton U12 v Frome U12

In contrast to the week before, Frome travelled the short distance to Norton on a cold day in which sleet, rain and wind were to be major factors.

On a pitch heavy with mud and water, Frome kicked off the first of two games.

Despite the conditions, both teams were determined to use the width of the pitch and run the ball but pace was often checked by the mud, which in turn lead to some spirited tackling – neither team held back with their commitment.

Each breakdown was to become a muddy battle and at times the ball was difficult to see as the scrum-halves tried to marshal their forwards in a bid for possession.

Norton were beginning to dominate when Frome forward Ben ripped the ball and broke away for the line. With three Norton players hanging on to him the try was given.

Norton soon came back and, with sustained pressure on Frome's tryline, a panicked kick from the visitors led to an equalising try.

Despite some valiant tackling, notably from centres Oliver and Callum, Norton managed to score again to secure a 10-5 victory.

By the start of the second game the cold, wet weather had taken its toll on several players from both sides.

Frome started strongly and, with such a muddy ball, they took full advantage of Norton's numerous handling errors as they dominated the ensuing scrums.

Time and again they claimed the ball to set up a series of attack from their backs but they could find no way through Norton's resolute defence.

Norton eventually began to attack the visitors with a series of pick and drives. But for the consistent defensive tackling of Frome, they would have scored on more than one occasion.

In the final scrum of the game, Norton picked up a ball that appeared to pop back out of the feed. Frome waited for the whistle but realised too late that it was not coming as the hosts grabbed a try to secure victory.

Frome's man of the match was Oliver.