The game showed two contrasting rugby styles, Chard with a muscular pack intent on a bullying forward battle, Tows, lighter and more agile, looked to keep the ball moving. This style proved its worth early doors when the home team stunned the visitors with quick hands, Marc Yeates, tackled just short of the line, managed a backward stretch to dot down, Falvey slotting the conversion.
Chard came back with vigour and for the first time this season Tows found themselves being out scrummaged by well drilled forwards who turned the screw, driving over for an eight man score. Tows continued on the back foot and an immense close quarters effort was needed to prevent sliding behind, Charlie Barker and skipper Liam Wilkinson to the fore. Eventually Chard's pressure told, their forwards sucking in defenders allowing their left wing to spring on a loose ball close to the try line to score out wide.
Tows backs were able to keep the game close, looking dangerous when in possession and after a break from Charlie Barker, Craig Holten was left free to score only for the visitors to regain the lead on the half time with a penalty.
The second half saw a concerted Tows effort with long periods on the offensive, coming agonisingly close to Chard's line on several occasions but with only two Falvey penalties to add to the score card for the pressure. Chard's first visit to Tows' half near the end of the game presented their pack with their chance to demonstrate their strength. Electing to scrum a penalty, they managed a huge last effort to force a penalty try from the meticulous ref James Bullock, to the joy of their travelling supporters.
A fine hard fought game between two competitive sides Tows having played their hearts out and a sad end to promotion ambitions this season after a brilliant league campaign guided by coaches Robbie George and the Snook brothers. Tows now have to rally to play their Alliance Cup final on Wednesday at Franklins Gardens their opponents ON's.