NORTH Petherton nearly pulled off what would arguably have been their biggest scalp in many years at a lively Beggars Brook on Sunday, writes Simon Freeman.

The game was played in a constant downpour and to the credit of all the players, both teams produced some fluid rugby. The final score rather flatters the visitors, as there were only two points between the teams until the 70th minute.

Taunton started the game more convincingly and tested Petherton’s defence with series of plays that finished with Pethy conceding a penalty 22 minutes in, which the Taunton full-back slotted over.

Taunton extended their lead after their strong setpiece put them in for a score on the opposite side from where it began. Petherton finally got in the Taunton half 20 minutes in, and camped themselves close to the visitors’ line for numerous phases. Taunton’s defence held firm until a one-handed flick pass by Sam Williams put James Cox in, who beat the scrambling defence from 20 metres.

Petherton then gift-wrapped Taunton seven points by having a kick charged down inside their 22. Taunton continued to apply pressure and force mistakes from the Petherton players – from a five- yard scrum Taunton’s match- winning number eight dived over in the corner.

Petherton regrouped and won a lineout just inside the visitors’ 22. With a clean catch, superb organisation and a strong drive, the National 2 side could only watch as Petherton impressively scored in the corner with Matt Brown at the bottom. All the front eight contributed to the last score, which made it 10-22 at half-time.

Pethy turned the tables in the second half and put pressure on Taunton. Two of the visitors were sent to the sin-bin for their lack of discipline and the home side set about them.

A typically abrasive charge by Aaron Gibbs took him to within five yards of the line and a skilful off-load to Toby Harris, who dived over the line, sent the home supporters delirious. Harry Roberts converted.

Petherton pinned the visitors back into their 22 and pressure from Simon Gingell forced the opponents to concede a penalty.

Harry Roberts added the three points, bringing Petherton to within two points of the visitors.

But Taunton who regrouped and picked up the pace, particularly when attacking from right to left. Petherton defended desperately and Taunton began to find holes in an overworked defence and in the 70th minute scored a relieving try.

The final few minutes saw Taunton cross over twice more, which gives the false impression of a comfortable victory.

Even in the last moments, Pethy continued to play attacking rugby. With their team spirit and tireless work for each other, they continue to improve on a weekly basis.

James Carter, captain for the day, said: “All the boys can hold their heads high – for 65 minutes we couldn’t tell the difference between the sides.

I’m very proud of the boys and that’s the standard we should strive for.”

l Money raised by the club on the day will go to the Jim Clatworthy appeal.

l The match sponsor was Bill Frost, of Frost Paving.

l Next week, Petherton are at home to Devenport Services, who are two places above them and five points ahead.