Cinderford produced a simply outstanding display of rugby to see off the challenge of Taunton Titans at Hyde Park.
It was second against third in National League 2 South’s match of the day and the visitors emerged victorious to extend the gap between them and their opponents to 13 points and they remain just one point behind league leaders Chinnor. The home team tested their opponent’s defence in the early stages but were unable to find an opening and Cinderford gradually worked their way upfield, then following several pick and goes from their forwards prop George Porter forced his way over for the game’s opening try.
The visitors continued to press forward and after a storming run from No8 George Evans the ball was quickly recycled to winger Alex Frame who scored a try, which Liam Hemming converted. A penalty awarded to Cinderford was kicked into the corner and from the lineout an exchange of passes put second-row Dale Lemon over for a try, which Hemming converted. The Forest team continued to play in great style and the bonus point try came when flanker Matt Lane showed great strength to shrug off several attempted tacklers and score, with Hemming again adding the extras. As half-time approached Taunton enjoyed a brief spell of pressure, but again they were unable to breakthrough and the score remained 26-0 to Cinderford at the interval.
The opening quarter of the second-half was evenly contested, but the Foresters continued to have the advantage up front and following a number of scrum re-sets No8 Evans, who had another tremendous game, scored his team’s fifth try, which Hemming converted. At this stage the Titans decided to throw caution to the wind and replacement Andy Hamilton skipped through the tackles to score a try, which Toby East converted. Soon afterwards they scored again through full-back Sam Brown, with East converting and with ten minutes of play remaining, suddenly the home side looked capable of getting something out the game.
However, a couple of good cover tackles from Cinderford’s Reuben Norville ensured that his team’s try line was not breached again and the final whistle brought them a tremendous victory.
Cinderford; Carwyn Penny, Alex Frame, Terence Babarinsa, Ed Bogue, Reuben Norville, Liam Hemming, Jimmy Williams, George Porter (Capt.), Nathan Taylor, Tim Brockett, Roger Birkin, Dale Lemon, Matt Lane, Aaron Ryan, George Evans.
Replacements; Joe Smart, James Elliot, Lewis Beer, Matt Bennett, Jack O’Connell.