Hornets lose out in their top of the table clash against Chard.

HORNETS travelled to Chard for a top of the table clash and were hoping that it wouldn’t be a repeat of last season’s match, in which Hornets left with an 88-7 defeat.

Both sides had nervy starts to the game and spent the first quarter feeling their way into the game. Fittingly the deadlock was broken by a penalty by Sam Lloyd-Jones giving Hornets the lead.

At this stage Hornets were playing well, but could not break through the line thanks to resolute defence from the home side. It was only going to be a matter of time before they were successful. Following a break through the middle by Adam Vaughan, Lloyd-Jones was on hand to take the final pass and touchdown out wide. He missed the conversion, but Hornets now led 8-0.

The hosts now started to expand their game and threw everything at their guests during the final 10 minutes of the half, but Hornets managed to clear their lines on each occasion.

Just before the half-time whistle, Chard were successful with a penalty to make the score 3-8 at the break.

Chard were first to score in the second half, with a try out wide. The conversion was missed to make the scores level. Just after, Lloyd-Jones missed with a penalty. Hornets made two changes with Luke Grimes and Tim Coker replacing Harry Nash and James Collings.

Chard scored two quick tries, one converted to lead 20-8. Hornets did their best to get back on top, but it was not until injury time that they made it count, Tom Bradley scoring in the 84th minute to close the gap to seven points.

It was too little too late though and the game finished 20-13, Hornets taking solace in gaining a losing bonus point, but also losing their grip on top spot.

On Saturday, the team are back in action at Hutton Moor Park when they welcome Whitehall, a side that were also promoted into Western Counties North this season as well. Kick-off is at 2.30pm and a large crowd is expected.