CORSHAM'S second string are closing in on the runners-up spot in the Bath Combination 2nd XV Merit Table.

Following a recent 5-3 defeat of leaders Wootton Bassett, the side took another step closer to second spot with Saturday's victory over their spirited Old Sulians counterparts.

Oldfield 3rd are the visitors on Saturday, but another victory could well see Corsham's seconds tracking their promoted first team with yet more silverware.

In a stop-start affair against Bath opponents Sulians, Corsham led at half-time thanks to a try from number eight Steve Hargett, converted by Steve Tye.

After a spell of Sulians pressure early in the second half, full-back Liam Healy broke through to increase Corsham's lead.

Sulians responded with a penalty but the home side began to threaten in the closing stages and they eventually pulled away with two more touchdowns.

Wing Matt Waymont crossed over after a solo run, Tye impressively slotting the conversion from wide out, while prop Ed Minty profited from another Healy break to take the scoring pass.

Tye converted to complete the balance of points.

n BROTHERS Tim and Ed Minty collected awards at Corsham Rugby Club's end-of-season presentation dinner on Saturday.

First team second row Tim was voted players' player of the year, while teammate and prop Ed collected the most improved player of the season.

Chris James was voted second team player of the year, French student Julien Minier received the Nigel Broggio award as young player of the year, while winger Chris Walker collected the top try-scorer trophy.

Retiring club coach Nev Smith picked up the Mike Crellin award as clubman of the year while Steve Bailey was awarded the Keith Beazer Memorial Trophy after not missing a game for the past two seasons'.

There were many stand outs for Corsham in a season when they dominated Dorset and Wilts One North, winning promotion to Southern Counties South, and the club wishes to consolidate in the higher league next season.

They will renew derby relations with Wiltshire clubs Devizes and Wootton Bassett.

The club will be starting interviews for a new coach next week. Anyone still wishing to coach the newly promoted Southern Counties South side should write to Corsham Rugby Club, Lacock Road, Corsham, Wilts SN13 9QG or contact Smith on 07773 280632 or (01249) 712917.