Old Patesians 23 – 21 Cinderford United
Cinderford United saw their lead at the top of Counties 2 Tribute Ale Gloucestershire reduced to just three points after a narrow 23–21 defeat away to Old Patesians.
In what proved to be a tightly contested encounter, United came within inches of snatching victory at the death but were ultimately edged out by a determined Old Patesians side who made their opportunities count.
Harry Tovey crossed for United’s try, while Will Baldwin also touched down, with Tovey adding the conversion and contributing three penalties to keep the visitors firmly in the contest throughout the afternoon.
Despite the close scoreline, United manager Paul Morris was honest in his assessment of the performance following the final whistle.
“It’s a tough loss to take as we had a kick to win it with the last play of the game. However, if it had gone over it would have masked a poor performance from our United.
We were undone at the set piece and our poor skill set and game management let us down. The Pats thoroughly deserved their victory after a passionate and committed performance.
We will regroup, learn the lesson given and come back stronger.”
Old Patesians’ physicality and control at the set piece proved decisive, allowing them to build pressure at key moments of the game. United battled hard throughout but were unable to find the decisive moment to turn the match in their favour.
While the defeat was a setback for the league leaders, United remain firmly in the title race and will be looking to respond strongly in their upcoming fixtures as they continue their push at the top of the table.
Picture credit Kairos Sports Photography