WITH another resolute display Devizes gained two more valuable league points winning a close encounter with North Dorset at the Slaughtergate venue.

In spite of vociferous home supporters the Saddlebacks held on to a three point lead for the last 15 minutes to win.

Devizes were strengthened by the reappearance of fly half Alex Bennett and the return, from injury of number eight James Gaiger.

Scrum half Tom Collins was on top form and very often in combination with Gaiger, tormented the opposition defence throughout the game.

Using their wind advantage North Dorset got into Devizes territory straight from the kick off.

Fortunately Devizes used the blind side in tight play, to relieve the pressure

Against the run of play Devizes own a scrum on the half way line and Bennett launched a high and wide hanging kick. Winger Andy Webb, at full throttle plucked the ball out of the air and outpaced defenders to score a spectacular try in the corner to give the Saddlebacks an early five point lead.

Although poor handling let down North Dorset when in promising positions, it was Devizes who could have scored again if there had been more close support when Gaiger intercepted a pass in the North Dorset 22.

Devizes were impressing with their passing out of the tackle, ensuring greater continuity. However it was North Dorset who caught Devizes defence napping to score wide out and get level 5-5 by half time.

After the break Devizes went close several times only to infringe and lose the initiative. Fresh legs of Gareth Jones and Ina Carter replaced Nick Munien, injured, and hardworking prop Charlie Rudler.

Devizes forward pressure finally told when James Gaiger was driven over to score. A great conversion by James Pople put Devizes seven points clear 12-5.

After Devizes mishandled and lost possession only a last ditch tackle by Martin Brimble saved a North Dorset score. Confident interpassing kept North Dorset on the back foot. They conceded a penalty which Pople kicked to extend Devizes lead 15-5.

Unusually weak tackling let North Dorset in for a further try, under the posts and easily converted 15-12.

Although North Dorset mounted several attacks Devizes defence held firm to the final whistle, to the great relief of skipper Tom Reed.