NORTH Petherton produced a sterling second-half display against a resilient Sidmouth side to extend their lead at the top of the table, writes Simon Freeman.

The heavy surface made life difficult for both teams, who nonetheless produced an entertaining game.

The majority of the early play was even with Sidmouth having numerous attacking positions and only stout defence keeping the lively Chiefs out.

Petherton entered the Sidmouth half for the first time in the eighth minute. A good line-out drive put the backs on the front foot and an excellent cut out pass by James Carter to Oscar Treganna enabled him to dive over in the corner.

In the 30th minute Pethy forced a turnover from Matt Angel and Harry Roberts added the extras.

This boosted Pethy and almost immediately Harry Roberts kicked over again following another infringement.

The remainder of the first half belonged to the home side as they deservedly clawed back the margin by firstly kicking a penalty and then a converted try.

The second half started in the best possible manner for the visitors with Ben Tracey scoring a converted try, before Roberts kicked two more penalties to clinch the game and resist a late Chiefs fight back.

On Saturday (February 9) Pethy welcome Thornbury.