Barristers have at last beaten solicitors in the first of their two annual out-of-court battles on the football field.

The legal eagles contested the Sam Butterfield Cup on Saturday, in memory of the Bristol barrister who died on honeymoon in India with his new bride Michala in January last year.

The fixture, in aid of the Jesse May Trust, was played in difficult conditions at Filton College and the barristers won 2 – 0, with a brace from Giles Nelson.

Solicitor's captain Craig Tickner said the Bar fully deserved their victory – their first since honours were first contested in 2006.

He said: "It was getting a little tedious beating them all of the time. Their victory will rekindle the fire in our bellies and make for a better game in November."

Barrister's captain Kannan Siva had his goalkeeper, ironically a law student who is going on to train as a solicitor, to thank for their clean sheet.

Mr Siva said: "We never had a keeper until Thursday. He stopped everything that came his way.

"It's a pity that I will have to revert back to my normal keeper next time.

"But I will enjoy it while I can."