BRIDPORT 5

NEW MILTON 15

AFTER two postponements, Bridport fell to New Milton despite a strong performance in difficult conditions in Dorset & Wilts One South.

The Blues fielded an understrength side because of Easter commitments and they put in a very gutsy team performance and, in an entertaining game despite the conditions, went down to a stronger New Milton side.

From the kick-off, New Milton’s attacking intent was clear and they were soon in the Bridport half and from a line-out on the 22 a blindside break was not covered and the away side scored an unconverted try.

This was followed very quickly from the kick-off with a second try as the Blues missed tackles and a clean line break saw New Milton touch down for a second unconverted try.

This was not looking good for the Blues but they upped their defensive game and stopped New Milton from making progress.

The Blues then had their best period of the half with constant pressure in the New Milton 22 but were unable to score and conceded a penalty, allowing the away side to clear.

With half-time approaching, New Milton upped the pressure and a series of drives close to the line were defended by the Blues winning crucial turnover penalties allowing them to clear their lines.

The hosts started the brighter in the second half and were soon in the opposition’s 22 but they were unable to capitalise allowing New Milton to clear and, after a subsequent penalty was quickly taken, New Milton crossed for their third unconverted try.

Whilst the Blues were struggling in the line-out they were able to get some good ball from the scrums and good handling in the backs got them into the visitors’ 22 only for the final pass to go astray.

From a scrum turnover on the half-way line, the Blues’ backs ran superb lines and drew the New Milton defence with the final pass to Sam Roberts-Wray on the 22 allowing him to run into the corner for the best try of the match.

New Milton were not done and somehow the Blues’ cover defence stopped an almost certain try to deny the away side a bonus point.

The Blues are away to Salisbury on Saturday.