Longlevens closed out their season in emphatic fashion with a commanding 54–19 victory over Thornbury, underlining their progress in a new, more competitive league with a clinical and free-flowing performance.
The home side came flying out of the blocks, blowing Thornbury away in the opening 20 minutes with a dazzling display of attacking rugby. Three converted tries from Matt Smith, Kev Van-Der-Leest and Isaac Meredith saw Longlevens surge into a 21–0 lead, catching their opponents cold and asserting early dominance.
To their credit, Thornbury found a foothold late in the first half, using their powerful set piece to punch their way back into the game. Two tries before the break made the score 21–14 at half-time, and hinted at a possible second-half contest.
However, any hopes Thornbury had of a comeback were quickly extinguished after the restart, as Longlevens shifted through the gears and played with freedom and confidence. Strong carries from the forwards created the platform, and the backs made full use of the space as the floodgates opened.
Five second-half tries poured in – Harry Morris crossing the whitewash, Matt Smith and Isaac Meredith both grabbing their second of the afternoon, and Jake Fox adding a brace to round off a scintillating team performance.
Thornbury managed a late consolation, but it did little to dent the mood as Longlevens celebrated a memorable win and a fifth-place finish in what has been an impressive debut season at a higher level. Their blend of physicality, pace and flair promises plenty more to come next year.
Games are coming thick and fast this week in the combination cup, with the firsts in action on Tuesday night against Old Cents and the thirds travelling to Matson on Thursday, #UTFG.
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