SALISBURY RFC put their cup heartache to one side as they notched up an 81-5 drubbing over Bradford-on-Avon to cement second position in Southern Counties South.

Salisbury gave debuts to Ieuan Phillips and Jake McConnell and welcomed back James Kay and Ashley Wright.

James Miller took Salisbury’s points' tally for the season past the 1,000 mark with the opening try. Wright then touched down before Rob Larcombe went over, tracking a superb break from James Kay. Rory Duncan crashed in for another try while Liam Gilbert put over two conversions taking the lead to 0-24 at the half way point.

In the second half, Larcombe broke for a try and then repaid Kay for his first half favour with a clear run to the line. Skipper Gilbert nipped in wide on the right and Jon Goldsmith raced through from his own 22 metre line to push the total on.

Bradford, in fairness, grafted hard in the face of the onslaught and managed a try down the left wing following an interception. But James Miller dampened their spirits with his second touch down. Dave Tonge took advantage of a wilting defence with a hat-trick before Phillips marked his debut with a try, and Gilbert made seven conversions against the wind.

Salisbury can now turn their thoughts to Dorchester at home on Saturday. It was a vital win for the Green and Whites which optimized the increasing strength in depth of the squad.

Coach Dan Jeffries appeared relaxed and pleased with the result.

Meanwhile Salisbury United beat Puddletown 65-12 and the A XV lost to South Wilts Barbarians 43-12.