Frome RFC welcomed Bathford based Avonvale RFC to The Lane on Saturday looking to build on the previous week's away win.

The visitors started brightly using the slight slope and wind to good effect, however stout defence kept them at bay during the opening minutes.

Frome started to come into the game with Forwards, James Howard and Eliki Bainimoli both carrying hard into the heart of the opposition defence. Quick passing through the backline released Winger Sam Cassidy out wide who beat two defenders to score in the corner. 

Frome continued to build the phases and a break by Player of the Match Zach Bartlett released his Centre partner Ali Frost to score close to the posts for a try converted by Cassidy. 

The home side continued to control the game and more slick passing released Winger Tom Weston who was caught just short of the line with an illegal tackle, resulting in the referee awarding a Penalty Try, and issue a Red card.

Despite being down to 14 men Avonvale showed great spirit to come back into the game with a well crafted try of their own. 

Frome regained control shortly after and more slick passing from Bartlett and Fly Half Simon Westlake spread the ball wide for Weston, who scored with aplomb in the corner for a converted try.

HT: Frome RFC 24 - 5 Avonvale RFC 

The second half started with Avonvale determined to score but despite a period of pressure the home side held out.

Frome, regaining possession then built the phases and used the slope to their advantage. With the Forwards punching holes in the defence, the Backline would soon have another chance to attack. A cross field kick by Zach Bartlett was gathered by his brother Sam Bartlett who caught the ball and off loaded to Frost to score. 

Frome increased their lead when from a planned line out move saw Howard release the ball to Scrum Half John Benstead who dived over to score. 

The next points for Frome came from Captain Geoff Taylor, who spotted a gap at the breakdown to burst through from 22 metres out to score under the posts. Bartlett converted.

The final score of the day came when replacement Cory Plumridge took the attacking play to the line and side stepped the final defender to score under the posts for a try converted by Cassidy. 

The final whistle was blown with Frome running out 48-5 winners, but credit to the visitors for sticking to their task despite being a man down for most of the game.

FT: Frome RFC 48 - 5 Avonvale RFC 

Player of the Match was awarded to Frome RFC's Centre, Zach Bartlett.

Frome RFC are next in action on October 14th when they travel to Royal Wootton Bassett.

Photos by Mark Sangster

Frome RFC 48 - 05 Avonvale RFC