TROWBRIDGE 38 BOURNEMOUTH 19

This match was the perfect fixture to compare the prospects of both clubs for the new season. Both sides won their level 6 leagues last season and were five players short of full strength taking account players unavailable through minor injuries or unavailabilities due to holidays etc.

Trowbridge were short at full back - Alex Kilbane, centre - Sam Harrison and wing- Alex Christopher and two back row forwards - Ryan Lech and Kacey Pike, so they were able to test some new recruits and their reserve strength, albeit on a pitch which has only partly recovered from the summer lack of rain.

Trowbridge took advantage of the elements in the first half with tries from wing Billy Coombs, back row forward Kyle Oakley and lock Gareth Davis, while Tom Weaver kicked two conversions. Bournemouth scored a converted try just before the interval and the scores with 19-5 at the break.

Both sides fielded squads of 25 players and Trowbridge’s reserve strength was tested, bearing in mind the increase in replacements required this season. They were rewarded with an improved squad performance with Trowbridge retaining their advantage with further tries from Ethan Hutt, Matt Simpson and Jayden Ephgrave, and conversions from Weaver and Rhys Hutt. Bournemouth scored two tries in the second half and a conversion and leave Trowbridge with some optimism as they approach their league campaign.

Trowbridge’s pre season is completed next Saturday at Clifton, facing their 2nd team, before their first ever league match at home to the Cornish All Blacks Launceston, on 26th September.