Ross were unable to get themselves into this contest and in bitterly cold conditions fell well short of their potential, and in the process saw themselves come adrift of the promotion battle.

The home side, with the wind at their backs, were the more industrious side in the first quarter dominating territory and, in doing so, forcing Ross to infringe. With three successful penalties Ross found themselves 9-0 down within 15 minutes.

For the remainder of the half some stubborn defensive work from the whole team kept the home side at bay and at halftime Ross went in still at 9-0 down

With the wind at their backs there was every reason for Ross to believe a comeback was on the cards, for the third quarter they camped in the opposition's twenty two and a score looked inevitable.

Twice from some strong scrimmaging Ross were held up over the line and that elusive try seemed so close. However Bristol somehow dogged it out and turned the contest upside down in the 60th minute with a breakaway score that broke the resolve of Ross.

In the dying minutes Bristol added another score to give themselves a somewhat flattering 21-0 victory.

Next Saturday January 19th Ross have both the 1st and 2nd teams at home so come on down and support your local team.

For more stories in full please see this week's Ross Gazette.