Cinderford returned from Cornwall empty-handed after a 31–19 defeat against Redruth at the Recreation Ground, despite making an explosive start to the contest.
The visitors struck first in spectacular fashion when Brendan Llewelyn gathered possession and sprinted the length of the field for a superb opening try. Sonny Greenman added the conversion to give Cinderford an early 7–0 lead.
Redruth responded through Tom Cowan-Dickie, with Joseph Cummings converting to level the scores. The hosts then seized the momentum as No.8 Chris Rovery crossed twice in quick succession, with Cummings adding both conversions to swing the game in Redruth’s favour.
Cinderford remained firmly in the contest and reduced the deficit before the break when Josh Horrobin powered over for a try, Greenman again adding the extras to leave the visitors trailing 21–14 at half-time.
The Cornish side took control early in the second half as Jack Simmons and Jack Counter both crossed for unconverted tries, extending Redruth’s advantage.
Cinderford continued to battle and were rewarded late on when Mattie Cotton crossed for a consolation try, but the hosts held firm to secure a 31–19 victory.
After the match, Director of Rugby Clive Stuart-Smith reflected on a frustrating afternoon for the Forest side.
“It was a frustrating performance that led to a disappointing result. We had identified areas to attack but just couldn’t build any sustained pressure with the ball. Consequently, we spent a lot of the game without it, having to defend an abrasive Redruth team that grew in confidence as the game went on.
“While we were brave physically, we didn’t deliver what we had set out to do as a group and let the game drift away from us.
“We will need a significant improvement this week as we face a quality Loughborough squad that will be hungry to play.”