HAVING lost to Crewkerne away in October, Morganians were looking to avenge this defeat and were able to choose from a strengthened side in this mid table clash.

Led by vice captain Jason Richards in the absence of Nigel Smith, Morganians got off to an impressive start.

Dominating territory and possession, they hit Crewkerne with commitment and spent the first 20 minutes in the opposition’s half, but were unable to take their chances.

They scored first with fly half Dave Jones kicking a long-range penalty after an indiscretion and a ruck.

Morganians player Craig Smith, who was playing well in the centre and making breaks, picked up a hand injury in the first half and was replaced at half time by Nathan Chillingworth, when Morganians led 3-0.

Five minutes into the second half, Crewkerne levelled the score with a penalty. They seemed to up their game in this half and were having the advantage of territory and possession.

Then 15 minutes in, Crewkerne scored a try after winning a scrum on the 22 line. They went on the blind side and created an overlap from which they scored, but did not convert.

Shortly after, Crewkerne backs ran in a try with a practice move as gaps were created with good angles and running. Not converted.

Towards the last ten minutes of the game, Crewkerne scored another try, which again they did not convert.

Morganians, however, came back well in the last five minutes as their powerful running forwards - Jason Richards, Roy Grimstead and Jeff Thompson - sucked in defenders creating the space for livewire Dave Jones to run in for a well-deserved try.

This was a much improved Morganians side compared to the away fixture afterwards, the squad was annoyed they were unable to take their chances in the first half and felt it was an opportunity missed.

Man of the match went to Shane Andrews for his all-round game, particularly for his jumping in the lineouts and for his skills in spoiling opposition call.

Morganians face North Petherton seconds at home on Saturday.

Team: Paul Grimstead, Simon Faber, jeff Thompson (Shaun Lloyd), Jason Richards (Neil Baker), Jeremy McBain, Shane Andrews, Drew Pierce (Dan Thorne), Roy Grimstead, Dave Mills, Dave Jones, Craig Weber, Ewan Hyde, Craig Smith (Nathan Chillingworth), Matt Bell and John Winter.

Morganians training is at the clubhouse on Tuesday’s from 6.45pm. They will be playing Saturday’s internationals on the big screen at the clubhouse.