End of the Chippenham run

The game was abandoned earlier in the season when the match official got injured, but Chippenham failed to take advantage of their second chance.

It was soon clear that the wet conditions were well suited to the home side's style of play.

After 17 minutes Abbey were awarded a scrummage five metres from the Chippenham line.

The set-piece collapsed and the referee awarded a penalty try which was converted.

Chippenham's only score of the game came after 25 minutes when the Abbey scrum-half was penalised for holding the ball on the floor.

Full-back Paul Clifford duly obliged with the kick, but Abbey retained the lead into the half-time break.

After it, Chippenham were immediately under a tremendous amount of pressure.

The Wiltshire side missed another penalty shot and, with 15 minutes to go, the pressure told.

A try from a driving maul was also converted to stretch the home advantage.

In the final minutes, Abbey scored their third to seal it and end Chippenham's run.

Head coach Rob Alford said: "This result puts Abbey on top but only on points difference.

"We made nine changes to the team we put out 3 weeks ago.

"We were physically outgunned up front it was boys against men.

"Out of the starting pack, six of them came from the club's youth system.

"Graham Treen at loose head prop is 20 and Karl Parry playing at tighthead prop is 19, so they were giving away 10 years to Abbey in experience.

"Abbey's style of play was effective but, over the course of the season, they won't win with that style of rugby.''

THE only other local team in league action was Minety, who lost their rearranged Southern Counties South clash with Bournemouth 25-8, flanker Max Smith scoring their only try.

Chippenham have a week off league commitments next Saturday, but have arranged a friendly at Rosslyn Park.

Supporters are welcome and the club are running a bus for the 3pm kick-off.

Further details can be obtained by ringing the clubhouse on 01249 446997.