Oli Rhoads bagged a brace in an entertaining contest, Axel Kalling-Smith, Willo Bicknell, captain Max Hayman, Alex Mannhardt and Ollie Hodgson also crossing the whitewash to build up a commanding lead before the hosts grabbed a couple of scores in the past five minutes.
There was much to like in the Rams’ display, albeit with lots to work on, but Harry was pleased with his side’s work.
He said: “Credit to Taunton, they’re a good outfit who only went down the season before, then finished third in National Two West last time and we knew what to expect.
“They’re combative, physical and also like to chuck it around, so I’ve got to give massive credit to (Defence coach) Danny (Batty) and the boys for their work – we scored a couple of tries from that, putting them under pressure and winning the ball back.
“There was also lots to like in attack, the continuity game was there, good fluidity, but it will take time for it all to come together.
“There were moments where we got it wrong, the ball not going to hand or people over-running it, but we’ll get to a point where we’re all licking our lips.”
‘Phenomenal work rate’
Reflecting on the two late Taunton tries, Harry continued: “Late on we’re down to 14, I actually thought it should have been a penalty to us rather than Morgan (MacRae) getting the yellow card, but those things happen and even in those moments, there were some great defensive sets – a lot of coaches go by the mantra ‘defence is the best form of attack’ and we showed that.
“Our work rate, physicality and effort off the ball was phenomenal and while we’ve still got work to do, there are some very positive signs.
“Both the players and us as a coaching group would agree what we’ve seen so far is encouraging, but there’s still much more to be done.”
Rams host Oxford Harlequins on Thursday (7.45pm). Entry is free with food and drink available and gates opening at 6.30pm.
