TROWBRIDGE went through to the semi-final of the Bath Combination Plate after this keenly fought match on Tuesday evening and now play Old Edwardians at Green Lane tonight, kick-off 6pm.

The winners of tonight's game play Frome in the final to be played at the Recreation Ground, Bath, on Wednesday at 6pm.

Trowbridge started well, with their forwards exerting pressure, but after five minutes Combe Down were awarded a penalty near their line when Trowbridge did not release the ball in the tackle and their dangerous backs broke free.

Two further penalties resulted in the play moving the length of the field and from a ruck on the Trowbridge line ex England under 19 international scrum half Jamie Knight dived over for a try.

Trowbridge continued to press but the scores did not come until late in the half when Lloyd Davis kicked two penalties to make the interval score 6-5 in Trowbridge's favour.

Despite the weight advantage of their opponents the Trowbridge forwards continued to press in the second half. Flanker Jamie Little was outstanding in disrupting Combe Down's possession and after five minutes Davis kicked a third penalty.

A crucial period came when Combe Down broke away and Trowbridge conceded a penalty close to their line. Number eight Nick Lawes was sin-binned and the play was camped on the Trowbridge line for a few minutes but their depleted side held firm until another penalty was awarded. Home captain Jason Wheatley kicked the goal and Trowbridge were relieved that they had only conceded three points.

Combe Down were awarded a penalty two minutes from time but Wheatley's kick was wide. Trowbridge attacked again from the restart and Matt Dudman broke free from a ruck. He was caught just short of the line and with the ball going into touch the final whistle was blown.