After a disappointing few weeks in Merit League One, Watton beat Thetford 2nds 21-7 under new coach Tim Shaw, formerly of Diss.

They took the lead when a quick tap penalty saw scrum-half Tiger Shaw, the coach’s son, go over in the corner for an unconverted try.

With the backs performing well and the Shaw and Graham Leggett half-back combination working like clockwork, the Watton forwards had to deliver a strong performance. And it was prop Bobby Wyatt who claimed the second try, also unconverted, following a quick lineout.

Wyatt also featured in Watton’s third try, taking the ball on and slipping it skillfully out to the charging Matty Brown, who burst through to make the interval score 15-0.

Wholesale changes in the Thetford side saw a different team emerge in the second half. A bolstered pack saw the Watton forwards struggle for the first time and a skilful chip and chase through brought a converted try.

The last two scoring opportunities fell to the home side, both from penalties. One was expertly kicked by captain Norman, the other slotted from outside the 22 by the d�buting standoff Gareth Leggett – who was emulating the Watton feats of his watching father Andy, a Watton legend. This week Watton are at home to Diss IIs.