HORNETS went a long way to winning the Somerset Colts League when they completed the double over second placed Taunton, winning 38-5 at a boggy Hyde Park.

Taunton 5 pts Hornets 38 pts

HORNETS went a long way to winning the Somerset Colts League when they completed the double over second placed Taunton, winning 38-5 at Hyde Park.

Hornets travelled to the game to the game with a mixture of Colts and Under-17s, with seven changes in the starting line-up from the previous week in the National Cup.

Hornets were the first to score when after 20 minutes a set move put Tom Bradley into space and Ben Cox was on hand to force his way over. Shortly afterward a Jermaine Jones charge down was gathered by Matt Cornish who outpaced the defence to score. Reece Watson converted both.

The third try was a scrappy affair. Sam Holland made good ground on a drive, the ball was fed out to the backs and good hands by Rich Hill allowed Greg White to chip over the defence for Hill to score.

Hornets fourth try came within a minute of the restart when Bradley was too strong for the Taunton cover, Watson’s kick made the score 26-0.

Taunton showed some adventure and passed the ball across their 22, however a knock on allowed Rhys Matson to pick up, Cornish took the ball on and a back handed offload and quick pass allowed White to outstrip the defence for a try that was converted by Watson.

Taunton did get one back when Hornets were down to 14 players, however the final score of the game came from the Hornets forwards. A classic catch and drive followed a line-out from a penalty, with Matson emerging from the heap to claim the try.

Alex Hawkins had his best game since his return from injury and led from the front, but Matson was the stand out forward and AGM Services man of the match.

Hornets are awaiting confirmation of two walkovers which would leave only three games to play in a so far unbeaten campaign. Next week, they travel to Wiveliscombe for a league and cup double header.