A successful start to the 2018/19 season has seen Midsomer Norton’s First Team mostly hold their position at the top of the table. Martin Blackmore and Ian Tiley refelct on the season so far.

Martin Blackmore, First Team Coach: “Maximum points at home and just two away losses to Stroud and Chew Valley have resulted in Midsomer Norton sitting on top of the Tribute Western Counties North League at Christmas, with 59 points. Fitness, hard work and a ‘never-say-die’ spirit from the whole squad has made this possible by edging close games and finding a way to win, even when not always hitting top form.

“The foundation has been built on a solid set-piece and winning the gain-line battle, but the efforts of the backs has been outstanding, with players having to learn multiple roles and be flexible, due to injuries and availability preventing us from having a settled line-up.

“All this hard work is only useful when it is translated into points. Ben Taylor’s goal-kicking form is a revelation and invaluable in tight encounters, giving us the edge and helping the scoreboard tick over.

Number Eight, Joe Button, leads the way with his non-stop aggression and eye for the tryline, scoring a remarkable eighteen tries, some of which weren’t even from scrums or mauls!

“There have been many highlights, including winning at Old Bristolians whilst playing nearly the whole game with fourteen players, and fine performances against the likes of Matson and Avonmouth at home, where the crowd were treated to a high-tempo and entertaining style of play. There are too many names to mention everyone, because all the proud Mendip warriors who have earned the honour of wearing the shirt have put their body on the line and deserve their rewards.

“We would like to thank all of the supporters who come to cheer us on and put a few beers away for good measure. The boys are under no illusions of how deep they will have to dig to continue to improve into the New Year, and are very much up for the challenge.”

Ian Tiley, Director of Rugby: “The Seconds have not been at their most consistent, but at Christmas, still sit in second place in Somerset Two North, within touching distance of the league leaders, Bristol Telephones.

“The team has welcomed back prop, Fraser Button, this season, and he is boosting their already impressive scrum. A few narrow losses have hampered them so far this season, which they may come to regret come the end of season, but all-in-all, they have been very competitive and look to take this form forward into the New Year.

“The Third team have had a mixed season so far results-wise, but the numbers have been excellent, proving that local rugby still has a thriving future. The real positives are the number of young players in the ranks who have begun the transition from Colts to Senior rugby with ease.

“Many now will, hopefully, progress up the teams, to achieve the ultimate aim of First Team rugby. The old stalwarts continue to provide a breeding ground for young talent, with the Bath Combination Merit table providing an excellent opportunity for all abilities to come together into one team.”