South West One West 

North Petherton 16, Camborne 40

NORTH Petherton slumped to a disappointing defeat at the hands of promotion rivals Camborne at Beggars Brook on Saturday, writes Simon Freeman.

A five-minute period midway through the first half ultimately finished the game.

The visitors played a power game that Petherton were unable to cope with that forced uncharacteristic mistakes.

Arron Gibbs and Jacob Beleski registered for the hosts, but Camborne’s power proved too much to handle.

The game started evenly with Petherton creating the first opportunity after good play from Mike Coles, Sam Williams and Pete Dickens.

The ball was moved across the park at pace until the official awarded Pethy a penalty - and Harry Roberts opened the scoring.

Camborne responded positively and played their way in to the Pethy 22 with a series of short breaks.

After a period of pressure, Pethy were reduced to 14 men with a sin-binning and Camborne took full advantage.

Playing at pace and with accuracy, the visitors scored three times in quick succession to lead 19-3 and take full control.

Pethy were left shell shocked but responded with another Roberts’ penalty shortly before half-time.

The second half began with hopes of Pethy fight back, but these were quickly revised As two quick tries from Camborne, both converted, meant Petherton were only playing for their pride.

As the game entered the last fifteen minutes Pethy began to exert sustained pressure and camp themselves in to the visitors 22.

Pethy threw wave after wave of attacks with Camborne showing some excellent organisation, until Arron Gibbs powered his way through a couple of tacklers to stretch over (11-33).

As before, Camborne responded in style with some purposeful running to xtend their lead – but Petherton still refused to give up and forced themselves in to an attacking position.

Jacob Beleski’s skilful chip and gather secured Pethy’s second try with the final play of the game – but it was a mere consolation as Camborne left with the bonus pint win.