Ross on Wye 18 Old Richians 28
After chalking up four wins in the last five games, Ross Rugby Club 1sts were confident they could push promotion seeking Richians all the way last Saturday. However, in the spring sunshine, Ross let Richians take what was to be a decisive early lead and two late tries were not enough to rein them in. Ross finally fell short 18-28.
Both teams looked nervy early on and with players failing to hold on to the ball mistakes came thick and fast. It was Richians who were the first to take advantage. After securing their own scrum ball they moved the ball quickly across the back line and their winger squeezed in the corner to open the scoring, putting them 5 - 0 ahead.
Unfortunately the errors continued and both kickers exchanged penalties giving Richians a 11 - 6 lead with half time looming. Ross began to put together some meaningful phases, and after some strong ball carrying from Ashley Nelms and Gavin Oates had opened up the defence, No 8 Adam Clements scooped up the ball from the back of a ruck and galloped unchallenged the twenty five metres to the try line. However, as he was in the process of touching down behind the posts, the referee blew his whistle as a few players were indulging in some "handbags". As a consequence Ross were robbed of seven points and went in at half time11-6 down rather than 13 - 11 ahead.
At 11 - 6 Ross were firmly in the game and a strong start to the second half was crucial. But within three minutes Richians had added another converted try and on the sixty minute mark they killed the game off with another score.
Ross did rally in the final quarter with the forwards in particular working hard and both Wayne Williams and Tim Hanks were able to profit by scoring a try a piece. However, there was enough daylight on the scoreboard and Richians were able to hold on, winning 28 - 18.
The Audreys Fish Bar Man of the match was Adam Clements.
Ross firsts are at home again next Saturday, March 20th, against Cirencester.