CORSHAM are into the semi-finals of the Dorset & Wilts 1st XV Senior Cup after edging out hosts North Dorset 14-11 in Saturday’s last-eight clash.

Tim Draper’s men, who booked a clash with Sherborne next month at their Lacock Road base, took the lead with a penalty kick from Andy Williamson.

However, North Dorset scored the only try of the first half to the lead 5-3 at the break.

Corsham put the hosts under pressure at the start of the second half and winger Kyran Broughton went over in the corner for an unconverted try.

A second penalty from Williamson moved the visitors into a 11-5 lead but the home side fought back and scored a try to narrow the difference to 11-10 with only a few minutes remaining.

Corsham restarted and managed to stay in the opposition half for long enough to gain a penalty which Kalif Barnes slotted to give the visitors some breathing space in the final minutes of the game.

Draper said: “Although the game was played in very difficult conditions, both teams tried to play attacking rugby in what was a very even contest.

“We took our opportunities well and put points on the board at key times during the game.

“North Dorset put us under a lot of pressure for long periods in the second half but our defence was outstanding and the main factor in holding out for the win.’’

Melksham bowed out of the Dorset & Wilts Vase as they were ousted 20-13 by Dorset Dockers on Saturday.

The home side had a strong first half, dominating in the scrum and performing well against a strong visiting outfit.

Scrum-half Callum Hurn notched up all the Melksham points, converting his own try and slotting two penalties to take the home team 13-5 up at the half.

The second half saw a reversal of fortunes, with Dorset in the ascendancy and scoring three unanswered tries to seal victory.