Regional 2 Tribute South West: Cullompton 54-21 Burnham-on-Sea

BURNHAM-on-Sea RFC have started 2024 in defeat as they lost 54-21 away from home against Cullompton at the weekend.

It was a difficult match to kick off the year against the fifth placed side in the Regional Two Tribute South West.

The result leaves Burnham at the bottom of the table in twelfth place.

Cullompton were on top for large parts of the game as they were able to break down the Burnham defence regularly.

To their credit, Burnham did create some nice attacking moves and were able to cross for 21 points themselves.

What is clear going forward, is Burnham need to improve defensively to stop leaking so many points.

A spokesperson from the club said: "We go again. Two key games coming up with Newton Abbot at home next week and away to chard the week after."

Back at home, the Burnham-on-Sea Seconds lost 31-24 against local rivals Bridgwater & Albion RFC Seconds.

Two tries were scored by Felix Grandfield while Nick McKen, Mason Shaw and Jamie Pike all scored one a piece.

But ultimately the visitors were too strong as Bridgwater claimed bragging rights this time round.

The result leaves Burnham-on-Sea Seconds in bottom place of the Counties 3 Tribute Somerset South division.

At the start of the year the club issued a thank you message to all the volunteers, staff, players and families involved in the club.

A spokesperson said: "We leave 2023 behind as one of our most successful years ever.

"With promotions for both the senior teams, a thriving junior section and a very successful takeover of the bar.

"None of this was possible without our volunteers, players, coaches, committee, supporters and sponsors.

"Your time and effort is massively appreciated and the club will always be forever grateful."

Looking forward, the club has asked for continued support off the pitch to help the sides on it.

"2024 brings new challenges on and off the pitch and we need your help more than ever before.

"We as a committee are constantly looking to improve and better ourselves as a club and provide the best environment to all and where possible we would love to have your feedback and ideas.

"On the pitch we know we have a big hill to climb but finally January has come and along with it has come reinforcements. Players back from injury and travelling now means we have strength in depth for both squads."