Chard did not let down the good sized crowd that turned up to watch the first home game of the season but last years runners-up Thornbury proved too big a hurdle for the inexperienced home side and in the visitors ran out comfortable 33-13 winners.

Thornbury missed an early penalty opportunity, but they soon made Chard pay dearly when they made the most of turnover ball from a lineout on the half way line and by spreading the ball wide very quickly Sam Higgins crossed for the opening try which Tom Luke converted.

Chard got back into the game well and had a ‘try’ disallowed for an infringement before equalising things up with some excellent play. Full back Jon Humphrey who had a good game throughout counterattacked well before off loading to flanker Ashley Smith who raced over. Humphrey converted the try.

Chard supporters were encouraged by what they witnessed, but unfortunately shortly before half-time, tries from Mike Beswick and Bob Adams both of which were converted by Luke gave Thornbury a 21-7 interval advantage.

After the break Chard again started well and soon reduced the arrears with two penalty goals from the boot of Humphrey and with the score at 13-21 Chard were certainly back in the game.

Thornbury were not to be denied, however, and the pressure told later in the half as they scored two tries with Adams and centre Dai Matthews getting the scores. Full back Luke added one more conversion to complete then scoring.

Once again it was not to be for Chard, but Luke Aplin and Dave Biss were outstanding in the pack for and Ben Johnson had more than a useful game at scrum half.

Ben Robinson was playing his last game for Chard before departing for University. The club wish him well as they also do to centre Jo Massey who suffered a leg injury in the final play of the game. Next Saturday (September 17) Chard are away at Bideford (3pm).

Chard 2nd XV were 11-7 winners of their Somerset Two South game at Winscombe 2nds. On Saturday (September 17), Chard 2nd XV host Bridgwater side Morganians (3pm).

On Friday (September 16) evening kicking off at 7pm under lights on the main Ground Chard Vets will host Wincanton RFC. Come along and enjoy the hospitality at the club as well as enjoying watching many players reliving their youth!