Shelford 17 - 36 Taunton  (written by Alex Birkby)
A powerful second half display from Taunton proved to be the difference between the two teams as they claimed a convincing victory against a spirited Shelford outfit.

Shelford came out firing in the first half and keeping their game plan simple, put the first points on the board after a powerful drive and try from impressive number 8, Rupert Ransom, converted by Harry Owens. Taunton brought several game breakers and most effective was inside centre Jason Luff, who was outstanding all afternoon, and it was from his incisive break that Taunton laid the platform for their first try, scored by number 8 Liam Wilkinson.
 
A collective defensive lapse from the visitors and quick thinking from Harry Owens put Steve Smith in for Shelford's second score, which was soon countered by a well-crafted try by Bufton, making the score 12 - 12 at the interval.
 
However, their cohesion, structure and persistence yielded further opportunities for Taunton. As Shelford tired, the game opened up and Gatford, Haile and Trott all crossed for the visitors to put the game beyond doubt. Despite a consolation try through George Perry, Taunton ran out deserving winners.
 
Star Man: Jason Luff
Attendance: 269
Referee: Tom Foley
Half Time: 12 - 12
 
Shelford Scorers: T: Ransom (11), Smith (35), Perry (80)
C: Owens (12)
 
Taunton Scorers:
T: Wilkinson (22), Bufton (37), Gatford (55), Haile (63), Trott (82)
C: Yapp (22, 56, 64), Luff (83)
DG:Yapp (68)