Cinderford 33 – 20 Old Redcliffians
Cinderford completed the league double over a determined Old Redcliffians side with a hard-fought victory at Bell Sports and Rugby Park, combining moments of individual brilliance with solid defensive resolve.
The home side made the perfect start, striking first when prop Mattie Cotton powered over from the back of a driving maul. Sonny Greenman’s conversion attempt was unlucky, rebounding off the uprights.
Old Redcliffians responded quickly as Tom Maclean finished well in the corner, with Ashley Groves adding the extras to edge the visitors ahead. That lead, however, lasted less than a minute.
What followed was the moment of the match. Man of the Match Sam Smith produced a stunning solo effort, beating multiple defenders on a scintillating run to put Cinderford back in front and ignite the home crowd.
Cinderford continued to apply pressure and were rewarded when full-back Jack Condliffe crossed for their third try, extending the lead. Groves kept the visitors in touch with a well-taken penalty, but the Forest side secured their bonus point in the 28th minute when hooker Jake Bailey was driven over from close range, with Greenman converting to make it 22–10.
Old Redcliffians refused to go away and struck again just before half-time, Maclean grabbing his second try to ensure the contest remained finely balanced at the break.
Half-time: 22–15
The second half developed into a more physical and defensive battle, with both sides working hard for every inch. Greenman edged Cinderford further ahead with two well-struck penalties, before the home side finally made the game safe in the final quarter. Winger Josh Horrobin showed great pace and composure to evade a touchline tackle and score in the corner.
The visitors had the final say when Finn Murphy crossed late on, but it proved little more than consolation as Cinderford closed out a deserved 33–20 victory.