Ivel travelled to Chard for their game that was postponed from December as a result of the weather. The match did not start very well when only eight players made the trip. This was bolstered when two more players arrived. The home team then leant them two players so the starting line-ups were 15-12 in favour of Chard.

The first half saw Ivel trying to set themselves up as credible opposition and for periods they managed to hold their own. Unfortunately excess of numbers and missed tackles allowed Chard to start running away with the game. Despite the numbers Barry Law did manage to secure a try for Ivel which was successfully converted.

Half time:

Chard 2XV                35
Ivel Barbarians 2XV   7

The second-half started as the first half finished. The home side took hold of the match and using the extra numbers they had, along with the fact they have played regularly together as a team, to great effect. The visitors from Yeovil just couldn’t keep up and match their opponents. Points kept being added to the scoreboard, and all for the home team. Chard eventually ran out as very convincing winners, leaving Ivel to go home mulling over the lack of commitment from the players not there.

Final score:

Chard 2XV                 84
Ivel Barbarians 2XV    7

Ivel Chairman said: “The lack of commitment from the players who didn’t bother to answer their team’s call is disappointing to say the least. The players that did turn up put in a fantastic performance. What we shouldn’t have needed was for me, and two other players (all of us over 50 years of age) along with the Club President to be called upon. This is not the way to run a team. The need for a strong 2nd team is to support the 1st team. A strong 2nd team means a strong 1st team and a strong Club. Our thanks to Chard for loaning us the two players, to at least ensure we had a match.”