Salisbury RFC maintained their place at the top of the league with a hard-earned 15 - 8 victory over Frome in difficult conditions on Saturday. Persistent rain, an unrelenting wind and a slippery ball made handling difficult throughout, limiting continuity and placing a premium on ball retention, discipline and tactical awareness.

Salisbury broke the deadlock after 20 minutes. Following a successful 50-22 kick from Rob Crossley, they were awarded an attacking lineout. No8 Rob Beecher finished a powerful and controlled forward drive grounding the ball.

Despite playing into the wind, Frome began to find their rhythm and cope with the conditions. They sustained possession and field position following a penalty at the restart but were unable to create an opening. Salisbury’s clearance kick was dropped and the hosts were awarded an attacking scrum. Moments later Salisbury had the visitors under severe pressure on the try line. Frome spilled possession for flanker Will Murley to grab the ball and feed Andre Browning for a try on 30 minutes.

Undeterred, Frome fought back and were controlling possession well given the conditions. Patiently they work through several phases to create and opening for their only try. Salisbury finished the half 10 – 5 up with the match very much in the balance.

Five minutes into the second half, Frome’s Simon Westlake landed a penalty to narrow the gap to two points. This resulted in greater focus and application from Salisbury now having to play into the strong wind. Salisbury’s third score came when Beecher broke from an attacking scrum supported by scrumhalf Jacques Kinnison. Browning’s power enabled him to break Frome’s tackles and finish the move for his second try.

With the lead at 15 – 8 on 50 minutes, the hosts established control. Flyhalf Aaron Hold defied the conditions with outstanding handling and tactical kicking throughout the half. Salisbury’s set piece became dominant and the source of several penalties. Lineout execution was particularly impressive and certainly helped sustain pressure. There were no further scores, and Salisbury saw out the win.

The wind and wet certainly did not dampen spirits. Both team can be credited with a commitment to play entertaining rugby. Local rivals Devizes also won but without a bonus point and Salisbury lead Counties 1 Tribute Ale Southern South on points difference. They will travel to Walcot next Saturday. Elsewhere Salisbury’s 2nd XV travelled to Melksham and returned 31 – 0 victors.

Pictures: John Palmer