Cinderford produced one of their best all-round performances of the season to beat Blackheath for the first time at their Well Hall ground.
The home side made a strong start to the match testing their opponent’s defences to the full before a series of pick and goes eventually led to hooker Mike Perks forcing his way over for the opening try, which went unconverted. The visitors responded well and when they kicked a penalty into the corner to set up an attacking lineout their forwards took the ball up to line with second-row Tyler Jerrum crossing for a try, which George Barton converted. Mark Cooke restored the lead for Blackheath when he kicked a penalty, but once again Cinderford responded well with hooker Joe Mullis scoring from a lineout catch and drive, which Barton converted and on then on the stroke of half-time he also landed a penalty to give his team an 17-8 lead at the interval.
Once again it was the home side who made the better start when play resumed, but they were unable to breach their opponents well organised defensive line and when Cinderford relieved the pressure, Barton was on target with his second penalty to stretch his team’s lead. As the game entered it’s closing stages the visitors made sure of their victory when Barton’s initial break saw the ball moved swiftly to Terence Babarinsa scored a try in the corner, which was well converted by Barton. There was still time for second-row Tom Stradwick to score a try for the home side, but it was no more than a consolation for his team as Cinderford emerged as worthy winners.
Cinderford; Ed Sheldon, Sam Smith, Terence Babarinsa, Jack Hayes (Capt), Ed Bogue, George Barton, Jimmy Williams, Ollie Dawe, Joe Mullis, Tim Brockett, Tyler Jerrum, Dale Lemon, Jack Shields, Matt Gilbert, Harry Hone.
Replacements; James Elliot, Sam Baker, Matt Lane, James Dean, James Butler.