DEVIZES ended the year joint top of Southern Counties South with another bonus-point success from a closely-fought match.

In an error strewn first half display, the Saddlebacks found the going tough, fly-half Andy Thompson landing a penalty to put them in front, but also missing three more efforts.

Just after the midway point, the home side exploded into life with two tries, James Gaiger with his first of the afternoon, then centre Rory Brown adding his first of the season and Thompson converting.

Some big hits from Craig Bryant kept the visitors at bay for the majority of the first half, with Lewis Paget making a number of big carries and strong tackles, but a converted try and penalty kept Weymouth in touch at half time.

A visitors’ penalty cut the gap to just two early in the second period and a stubborn performance kept the home side at bay until Gaiger scored his second with 20 minutes to go.

Weymouth continued to be a real thorn in the Saddlebacks’ side, but they held firm and Tom Collins touched down for the bonus point try.

Brown got his second of the match, accelerating through three or four tackles from 40 metres out and Thompson’s conversion completed the job.

FOR MORE RUGBY NEWS, REPORTS & PICTURES SEE THURSDAY'S GAZETTE & HERALD AND FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @gazsport