Yatton Colts improved their performance despite suffering a defeat against Taunton Colts.

The match on Saturday, November 3, began with Yatton facing another strong, well-organised Taunton team.

Determined not to repeat their previous encounter where they conceded four tries in the first 15 minutes, Yatton aimed to start strong.

However, a couple of early tries from the visitors proved the difficulty of their task.

Yet, Yatton’s play and determination showed a marked improvement compared to their last outing against Taunton, though the final scoreline of 52-7 might suggest otherwise.

After Yatton's opening kick-off, which was fiercely contested, the home team applied early pressure, particularly in tackles and at the breakdown.

However, when the ball moved away from close contact, Yatton struggled to contain Taunton's runners, allowing them to exploit the space.

This pattern proved costly throughout the match.

Despite going two scores down, Yatton found themselves with an attacking lineout near the Taunton 22.

Some impressive handling saw the ball sped across the pitch to winger Mo Sayce, who demonstrated strength and speed to score in the corner.

When Jimmy Jackson-Patel converted from near the touchline, it seemed Yatton had regained momentum.

Regrettably, this was their only score of the first half.

Yatton’s scrum, which had faltered in their previous match against Taunton, held up commendably this time.

However, their defence struggled to maintain effectiveness over multiple phases.

This allowed Taunton to recycle the ball, gaining ground and finding gaps.

Taunton scored three more tries before half-time, leaving the score at Yatton 7, Taunton 31.

(Image: Yatton RFC) As the second half began, Yatton found themselves with an increasing number of players out of position due to injuries.

Despite this, the home team refused to give in.

They continually pressed their visitors, demonstrating some impressive rugby and individual performances.

Flyhalf Jackson-Patel, centres Sam Tyas and Charlie Paul, and fullback Tyler King all made numerous tackles.

Hooker Dan Goldberg and No.

8 Fraser Lewis worked tirelessly throughout, even when they found themselves playing as centres and wingers.

Flankers Flynn Cootes, Ivor Malone and second row Calum Driver also put in a shift.

Taunton managed to score another three tries in the second half.

Yet, without the combined efforts of Yatton, the tally could have been much higher.

The match concluded with a final score of Yatton 7, Taunton 52.