Cinderford recovered from a testing opening quarter to secure a bonus point victory over Tonbridge Juddian, in the first-ever meeting between the teams.
The visitors found themselves penned deep in their own half for much of the first 20 minutes of the match, as they struggled to overcome the strong wind blowing in their faces. The home side took advantage when they retained possession through numerous phases before scrum-half Charlie Edwards dived over for an unconverted try from close range. This trend continued and a Liam Prescott penalty extended the lead to eight points soon afterwards.
Eventually though Cinderford broke the shackles when they returned an up and under with interest, as quick hands released winger Reuben Norville to outpace the home defence for a try, which James Moffat converted. The visiting forwards began to take control as first-half progressed and right on the stroke of half-time they took the lead when No8 Harry Hone forced his way over for a try, again converted by Moffat.
Cinderford were soon on the front foot from the re-start and Liam Hemming showed good skills to evade several attempted tackles to score a fine try, which Moffat converted. The try scoring bonus point was secured when Hone crossed for his second score as his forwards mauled their way over their opponents line, with Moffat again adding the extras. Then replacement Roger Birkin went over in similar fashion for the visitor’s fifth try.
To their credit Juddians stuck to their task and scored a deserved consolation try five minutes from time through Will Colderick, which Nathan Holmes converted.
Cinderford; James Moffat, Sam Goatley, Terence Babarinsa, Rob Winchle, Reuben Norville, Liam Hemming, Jimmy Williams, George Porter (Capt.), Tom Bozzard, Tim Brockett, George Evans, Dale Lemon, Matt Lane, Dan Broady, Harry Hone.
Replacements; Dino Dallavalle, Joe Smart, Jack Shields, Roger Birkin, Alex Frame.