Dorchester started their League season with an encouraging victory over local rival Bridport. The home side were not at their best but always looked likely winners once the opening exchanges were over.
Playing in near perfect conditions both sides started in a conservative manner and most of the play was between the twenty twos. The visitors had the first chances to open the scoring but two kickable penalties went begging. The forward exchanges were pretty even but Dorchester appeared sharper out wide and it was the pace of the home backs led to the first score.
Slick hands from John Firkin and Rich Bament put Gareth Biddle away down the right wing. Biddle drew the fullback and returned the ball to Bament who scooted into the corner. Firkin who was unable to convert the try, kicked a straight forward penalty to give Dorchester an eight point lead at the break.
The visitors knew that they had to get the next score if they were to make an impact on the match and they duly up their pace and commitment. As a result of the pressure Dorchester lost their composure for twenty minutes and two successful penalties for Bridport closed the gap to a mere two points.
Finally the host managed to shake off their lethargy and began to play the game in their opponents half. John Firkin kicked a second penalty before replacement “Jack” Elliott sliced open the midfield defence and powered his way under the posts. Firkin added the extras and the game was effectively won. Bridport came back with one last effort for a consolation score but the home defence held firm to keep their try line intact.
The two points were a much needed boost but Dorchester know that they will need to improve if they are to make a serious impact on the league.
Weatherbury Hearn- SEC - JW Scaffolding Man of the Match: James Rossiter – very calm and composed in his first competitive game at this level.
Team; Cottell, Chalker, Boyt (Borries 70), Hodges, Broadbent (King 70), Gower T, Newsam, O’Connell; Gower D, Rossiter; Caines, Gower J (Elliott 45), Firkin, Biddle; Bament.
