Dorchester poor run continued as they slipped to their fourth defeat in their last five matches. Despite dominating the second half they were unable to breakdown Sherborne’s stubborn defence.
The home side started with a bang while Dorchester were looking distinctly rusty and it was no surprise that Sherborne were soon nine points to the good. Three simple penalties from the lively scrumhalf punishing Dorchester’s indiscretions.
The visitors scrummage was holding up well but the lineout was a bit of a lottery as a lack of match practice was all too obvious. In a rare visit to the Sherborne twenty two Dorchester fly half Adam Jones closed the gap after the home backs were caught offside in front of the posts. Half time arrived and Dorchester were fortunate to be only six points behind.
With the benefit of the slope in the second period Dorchester were confident that they push on for a much needed victory. However, some sloppy defending allowed the hosts No 8 to score the opening try of the game, the conversion stretching the lead to thirteen points. A second penalty by Jones bought Dorchester back into the contest as they laid siege to the Sherborne line.
On several occasions Dorchester were held up over the line and winger Tom Gower looked to have scored in the corner only to be denied by a foot in touch. But for all their efforts Dorchester were denied the score that would have really opened the game.
Both sides were tiring but it was Sherborne who got the crucial second try. The second row scoring close to the posts and allowing a simple conversion. The game was now won but there was still time for a try apiece. Tom Gower squeezing in at the corner for Dorchester, James Rossiter converting, before the Sherborne replacement centre took advantage of some more weak tackling scoring the final try of the day.
Acheson Construction man of the match:: Ian Dixon.
Team: Hodgson, Chalker, Borries, Hodges (Broadbent 50), King, Hawkins, Miller, Dixon; D Gower, Jones (Rossiter 65); Biddle, Waddington (Newsam 65), Harvey, T Gower; Read;
