In the first league outing of 2026, Salisbury travelled to Devizes on Saturday for a Counties 1 Tribute Ale Southern South clash that produced six tries and an entertaining 24-24 draw.

In bright winter conditions, Salisbury started with intent and were on the scoreboard within six minutes when flanker Sam Goldsmith finished a midfield break initiated by Mica Garvey Ortiz and Theo Andre Browning, full-back Ollie Bate added the conversion to put the visitors ahead. Devizes responded through a well-worked score of their own five minutes later to level at 7-7.

Salisbury regained the lead in early in the second quarter when wing Fraser Wilson finished a break from Salisbury’s forwards. He then scored his second try on 32 minutes following a strong defensive set from the visitors. Second row Bradley Emanuel broke through the midfield to fragment the Devizes defence; Garvey Ortiz and Andre Browing continued the move for Wilson’s pace to enable him to finish and establish a 17 – 7 lead. The hosts responded immediately before halftime after doggedly working through phases to score a converted try narrowing the margin to 17 – 14 in Salisbury’s favour.

Both teams struggled to gain control and maintain continuity for much of the second half. Several individuals carried the ball strongly, made yardage and half breaks but Salisbury lacked fluency. 11 minutes into the half, the visitors were awarded a penalty five metres from the Devizes line. Skipper Bobby Brown opted to run it and barged his way over. Bate converted and Salisbury looked more comfortable with a 24 – 14 lead. Devizes responded quickly, knocking over a penalty from distance to keep themselves in touch at 24-17. They dominated much of the final quarter aided by a stronger scrummage but, like the visitors, often failed to exploit promising positions. Devizes were rewarded for their efforts with 10 minutes remaining. A converted try in the corner level the scores at 24 points apiece.

Salisbury regrouped and looked more threatening but valuable opportunities to kick for field position were squandered and the match was drawn. A fair reflection of what must have been a frustrating watch for both coaches. That said, Salisbury earned a four-try bonus. They will take three points from the match but remain fifth in the league, four points behind Devizes with a game in hand. They will host Melksham next Saturday.

Pictures: John Palmer