WARMINSTER inflicted only the second league defeat of the season on leaders Blandford as they performed better in atrocious conditions at Folly Lane.

With the wind at their backs in the first half, the home side got off to a flyer and had scored the opening try.

Centre Dai Frowen broke through the Blandford defence with ease but, rather than attempt the score himself, he threw a well-timed pass on to winger Craig Buckton who splashed his way through the mud to slide over Jason Sprangle added the difficult conversion and Warminster continued to dominate territory and possession.

In the loose second row Dave Bowman made yard after yard, although his side did cough up possession at crucial moments when threatening to score.

Blandford’s defence held firm for the remainder of the half and, against the elements as they turned around, Warminster battled upfield.

However, as Blandford gained territory, they scored their one and only try from an attacking scrum to trail by just two points.

Blandford had a chance to take the lead when a Warminster infringement resulted in a penalty but the kick rebounded off the uprights, as did Sprangle’s effort for the home side soon after.

With just seven minutes remaining Warminster sensed the victory was there for the taking.

An injury to full-back Sam Couch forced a reshuffle, with number eight Dean Priestman being forced on to the wing.

It was a Priestman double which sealed the game, his first coming after good hands, the final pass being supplied by prop Steve Rowbotham.

Battering the Blandford line, prop forward Mat Dunford was unlucky not to get his first-ever score for the club, but the ball was recycled well and Priestman picked up to drive over after three attempts.

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