It was top against bottom at the Richmond Athletic Ground and although the league leaders secured a bonus point victory, Cinderford emerged with plenty of credit for their battling performance.
In very blustery conditions, the visitors began brightly and looked disappointed to be called back for an alleged obstruction as winger Josh Adams raced clear. Andy Hall and Chris Eden exchanged penalties before Rory Damant scored the opening try of the match for Richmond after 20 minutes of play. Hall increased the lead for the home side when he touched down, but Cinderford were quick to respond through centre Sam Hanks with a well taken try. The referee then produced three yellow cards, two for Cinderford and one for Richmond but the score remained 13-8 at the interval.
With both sides restored to their full complement, Richmond were soon pressing forward when play resumed and Charles Broughton went over for another unconverted try in the far corner. The home side were now looking more in control and the ball went through numerous phases before they eventually scored their bonus point try through prop Tim Walford, with Hall landing the conversion. The remainder of the match was fairly even and brought no further scores, but overall Cinderford can feel encouraged by their display against a side pushing for promotion to the Championship next season.
Cinderford; Mike Wilcox (Capt.), Harrison Yorke, Gary Dipple, Sam Hanks, Josh Adams, Chris Eden, Alex Frame, Derrick Appiah, Chris Bundy, Elliot Booley, Milo Reynolds, Ed King, Roger Birkin, George Mills, Adam Balding. Reps: Dan Keat, Tom Bozzard, Marcus Brown, Matt Lane, Lloyd Stapleton.