MINEHEAD Barbarians enjoyed another successful Saturday, with the 1st XV battling to a 36-31 victory at Avon, while the 2nd XV recorded an emphatic 66-0 home win over Wellington.

Following their remarkable 100-point victory at Yatton the previous weekend, the 1st XV travelled with confidence . However, Avon has been a difficult venue for the Barbarians, as was the case on Saturday.

The game went right to the wire, but the Barbarians combined attacking quality with defensive resilience to gain victory and five points.

Director of Rugby Luke Milton said: “We have struggled at Avon previously but the boys combined some excellent attacking rugby with sheer defensive guts to achieve a memorable win.”

Club legend Richard Henson returned to the 1st XV and was deservedly named Man of the Match. Young Fred Cudmore also made his 1st XV debut after an impressive summer of training, with the special connection that Henson is his godfather, highlighting the club's blend of youth, experience and family spirit.

Milton added: “It was great to see Richard back in a 1st XV shirt. Fred has trained fantastically all summer and patiently waited for his chance. He has huge potential and a great attitude.”

The victory leaves the 1st XV with three wins from their opening four games, three of which have been away from home.

The 2nd XV also impressed, entertaining a healthy home crowd and running in the points against Wellington. Young fly-half Josh Lynch was outstanding and earned Man of the Match honours.

Milton said: “The 2nd XV got back on track and played some brilliant rugby.”

On Saturday, October 24,, the 1st XV host Taunton Warriors, while the 2nd XV travel to Weston Hornets.

Milton added: “We’re hoping for a bumper crowd to cheer the boys on against Taunton. We love playing at home and are looking forward very much to this Saturday.”