Ross 2nds entertained Berry Hill 3rds at home on Saturday and despite playing some excellent rugby, were 12-35 losers.

Berry Hill started brightest and scored after just seven minutes. Ross responded well and got themselves in front following some sustained pressure. A quick tap penalty from scrum half Craig Penalty on the Berry Hill 22 saw second row Lee Clement run a great line to score under the posts. Powell converted. The experienced and big Berry Hill pack started to turn the screw in the scrums, making it difficult for Ross to get good ball to their backs. Only some superb tackling from Rob Brhony, Jason Henderson and Josh Brett prevented Berry Hill from scoring.

Berry Hill did finally start scoring in the second half, using their pack to do the damage. Late in the game, following another Berry Hill try, Ross got on the score sheet again. Powell took the re-start and hung the ball up high towards the corner flag, the Berry Hill winger tried in vain to keep the ball in play, only for Ross' Ian Phillips to pick up and touch over after chasing down the kick.

It was an encouraging performance for Ross in only their second friendly and the Hagesud Bosse man of the match was 17 year old flanker Josh Brett.

This Saturday the 1sts start their new league campaign. Both the 1sts and the 2nds will travel away to Broad Plain. The 1sts first home league match is on Saturday September 21st against Cheltenham Civil Service.

For more stories in full please see this week's Ross Gazette.