Old Bristolians 22 – 16 Bishopston

OBs scored three tries in a tough league game that started in bright sunshine, but the rain and hail soon came to prevent an entertaining game.

Bish started well and converted a penalty. Centre Tom Westray then made two telling breaks from deep, evading numerous tackles and linking well to help set up tries for No. 8 Wayne Cockram and winger Garth Hannaford, with Jack Price kicking both conversions.

Bish regained some possession and scored a well worked try that was duly converted.

OB were looking to continue to exert pressure in the forwards and the backs, but the rain and hail came to slow the game down considerably. A further penalty apiece set the half time score at 17 – 13.

The rain continued throughout the second half, which made handling difficult and territory was the name of the game. OBs with the slope and slight wind advantage, were winning the kicking battle and the set piece was working very well. This eventually led to a try by hooker Jon Whiteman off the back of a lineout to take the score to 22 – 13.

Again, OBs looked to kick on but the weather and some resolute Bish defending prevented a further score.

Bish did regain some territory to kick a penalty close to the end of the game to settle the score at 22 – 16.

What started off as a good game of rugby was rained on from a great height. It is surprising that Bish are fighting for survival, as in both games OBs have found them difficult opposition to overcome.

OBs have three league games and the Bristol Combination Vase Cup final to go. This Saturday, OBs welcome bottom side Longlevens to Failand.