Burnham were defeated by just one point in their derby encounter against North Petherton.

THIS was an enthralling game played in the best of spirits and competitiveness between old local rivals, which eventually saw Pethy emerge as winners.

Burnham started the game well forcing Pethy back towards their own line and after several successful phases, Mike Hocking peeled off and muscled his way over. Piper converted for a 7-0 lead.

Fifteen minutes later, Petherton opened their account with a penalty after Burnham transgressed. Back came Burnham and following good line-out retention and forceful driving, the ball was whipped out to the backs where Jordan Paul crossed from his own wing to score in the opposite corner.

Either side of the break, Burnham lost their composure and with two players sinbinned, it allowed Pethy the opportunity to score a converted try, with a catch and drive, followed by a penalty to slip into a one point lead at 12-13.

Another catch and drive try after a penalty line-out saw Petherton increase their lead, but in the dying moments after three penalties under the posts, Burnham went wide and Fotu Latu was able to finish the move, which Piper was unable to convert.

On Saturday, Burnham are away to Weston Hornets, another local derby, kickoff 2.30pm.

Minehead 0 pts

Burnham 2nd XV 21 pts

Burnham Seconds travelled to Minehead and came away with a hard-fought victory.

Playing up the slope in the first half, Burnham’s defence was strong. In the line-out, Tom Stevens was in command and Ben Bowket, Glen Cutter, Phil Collings Ash and Matt Slater did a fine job in the forwards.

The backs were also getting their act together, with Chris Warner, Mike Whitfield, Dan Conway and the two new players making their debut into senior rugby, Alex Watkins and Alex Alyward all playing well as the half ended scoreless.

The second half saw Burnham kick up a gear and Lee Berry crossed the line to break the deadlock, followed by another try for Tom Stevens, both converted by Whitfield.

During the last quarter, Watkins sealed his debut with a fine run and kick through to score, again converted by Whitfield.