After a very promising start to their Division 1 campaign Ross came tumbling down to earth on Saturday after a 29-0 defeat to early pacesetters Southmead. Ross were expecting a stern examination from last seasons top three side and Southmead did not let them down,working hard as a unit up front never letting Ross settle into their game. Southmead had set their stall out from the first whistle, driving tight to the rucks,. They were able to get over the advantage line and dominate territory and possession. The opening score came from an early Ross infringement. Southmead set up a five metre lineout,their hooker found his jumper,and from the ensuing maul the forwards drove over to score. This opening score set the scene for the rest of the match. Ross competed effectively in most areas of the game,however when the Southmead forwards worked their way into the Ross twenty two they were able to up the tempo placing a huge amount of pressure on the Ross defence. For the most part Ross held firm with Gavin Oates, Tim Hanks and TC Leech working tirelessly. However by half time Southmead added another score to take a 12-0 lead at the break. Ross upped their work rate in the second half, getting good territory and possession. A score early on and a conversion could have put a different perspective on proceedings however they were never able to inflict that killer blow,and after absorbing early pressure Southmead broke out of defence and scored giving them a 19-0 lead. Ross continued to work hard but with the game now lost, the Southmead forwards came again adding two further scores, giving a final score of 29-0. The Walford Timber man of the match was TC Leech for his tireless efforts in defence. On Saturday, October 6th, Ross take on Bream at Ross Sports Ground 3pm kick off