It was a game to remember for all those present. Corsham had the better of the early exchanges, Salisbury defended well but gave away penalties and a yellow card. There was no score for the first 20 minutes, Salisbury conceded a penalty but came back with a penalty try on 40 minutes to lead by 7 points to 3 at the break.

In the second half the conditions deteriorated with the most horrendous rain seen for a long time. Salisbury conceded another penalty before captain Bobby Brown scored a few minutes later. The conversion from Mica Garvey Ortiz made it 14-6. 10 minutes later a try by Bradley Emanuel put Salisbury further ahead, before Corsham came back with a fine try to make it 21-13. In the last minute prop forward Aidan Gill scored a fine try in the corner to snatch the bonus point and make the final score Corsham 13 Salisbury 26.

It was breathtaking stuff, both sets of players gave it everything despite the pitch turning into a quagmire with floods in many parts. Both teams must be complimented, the game was played in a fine spirit. Salisbury took 3rd place in the league after the weekend's games.

Elsewhere the 2nd XV recorded a win by 24 points to 11 away to Combe Down 2nds, making it a good afternoon all round for the club. The 1st XV have a break this coming weekend, the 2nd XV have a cup game away at Oakmeadians and the 3rd XV a friendly at Fordingbridge. League action resumes on the 14th. February, with the 1st XV hosting Swanage & Wareham at Castle Road and the 2nd XV travelling to Avonvale.

See here for a gallery of photos from the match.

Report: Clive Barnwell/John Palmer
Photos: Clive Barnwell