Cinderford 32 – Redruth 22
Cinderford 1st XV produced a determined and disciplined performance to earn a much-needed victory over Redruth at The Bell Sports and Rugby Park.
Redruth started the brighter, flying out of the blocks in the first minute when Jack Counter crashed over in the corner for an unconverted try, giving the visitors an early lead. Cinderford soon responded with a penalty from fly-half Sonny Greenman, putting points on the board and signalling that the home side were ready to fight back. However, Redruth extended their advantage with a well-worked try from Ed Pascoe, converted by Ethan Morgan, leaving Cinderford trailing.
The Foresters soon began to assert themselves. Ben Carpenter crossed for a try following some smart attacking play, with Greenman adding the extras to bring the scores level. Shortly after, a superb break from Sam Smith, combined with an intelligent kick through, set up Tom Samak to score, again converted by Greenman. Despite a late penalty from Redruth’s Morgan, Cinderford went into the interval with a slender 17–15 lead, reflecting a half of tight, competitive rugby.
The second half saw Cinderford dominate possession and territory early on. The pressure paid dividends when Reilly Scriven powered over for a try, extending the home side’s lead. The forwards continued to impose themselves, and Jake Polledri’s strength off the back of a scrum saw him cross for another score, with Greenman converting to further increase the advantage.
Redruth fought back, capitalising on one of their first meaningful possessions of the half as Jack Simmons crossed for a try, converted by Morgan, narrowing the gap to seven points. The final quarter was tense, with both teams probing for opportunities, but Cinderford’s scrummage dominance proved decisive. A crucial penalty from Greenman extended the lead to ten points, which proved to be the final score in a hard-fought and enthralling contest.
Cinderford’s victory was built on a combination of structured attacking play, resolute defense, and control at set pieces. Standout performances came across the park, with the forwards providing a platform for the backs to execute incisive plays, while the defense held firm under Redruth’s early pressure.
Cinderford Team: Harry Tovey, Sam Smith, Hugo Murray, Tom Samak, Will Anderson, Sonny Greenman, Josh Horrobin, Mattie Cotton, Nathan Taylor, James Elliot, Tyler Jerrum (Capt.), Ben Carpenter, Reilly Scriven, Joe Mullis, Jake Polledri.
Replacements: Alex Bosworth, Jake Bailey, Dan Broady, Callum Thompson, Clive Stuart-Smith
Cinderford leave The Bell Sports and Rugby Park with a well-earned 32–22 victory, showcasing resilience, skill, and the ability to control a tight and competitive fixture.