New boys set to face Pontypool

CINDERFORD return to rugby action at Dockham Road this Saturday with an opening trial game against Pontypool (3pm).

There have been plenty of comings and goings during the summer months, with Rob James, Rob Fidler, Mark Cornwell, Andy Macrae, James Copsey, Jed Hooper, Neil Bayliss, Mike Hart, Freddie Burns and Toby Wilson all leaving the club for various reasons.

The Foresters won’t be short of numbers, however, with a string of new talents coming in to bolster the ranks.

Dings Crusaders duo Mike Panaho and Dave Bufton were training with the club on Tuesday night and look likely to sign.

Bufton is a second-row, while former Dings skipper Panaho is a number eight. Both are experienced county players.

Ex-Lydney lock Dave Bennett has developed into a decent performer with Leicester Lions over the past couple of seasons. Now, the St Briavels-based forward is also heading for Cinderford.

Another second-row, Ed King, has joined the Foresters from Stourbridge. Hooker Ben Saville played club rugby in France last season, but now he’s back to compete for the number two shirt with Nigel Matthews and Chris Hall. The latter has decided to stay after considering his options, but needs an operation on his hand.

Prop Chris Kutts has joined from Hartpury College, while another new prop looking sharp in pre-season training is Joseph Smart.

Forwards coach Lee Fortey has also confirmed his intention to make himself available on the field if needed. The back-row will be further strengthened by the arrival of ex-Waterloo man Danny Hall and Gloucester academy student Richard Jenkins.

Among the backs, Alistair Bressington and Danny Pointon have joined from Stourbridge – and Pointon could get a run at fly-half. Tim Stevenson is currently returning to fitness following a shoulder operation.

Other new additions in the back line include Army centre Tyson Wainoqola and former Dings, Cleve and Bridgwater man Ollie Mansbridge.

Cinderford have done extensive work on their fitness and changing rooms during the summer, with more developments set to follow.

Forwards coach Lee Fortey said: “I’m still finding my feet a bit, but I’m really enjoying it.

“Replacing Mark Cornwell and Rob Fidler won’t be easy but the forwards have done their first session as a unit and it’s all looking quite promising.”