Ross 2nd XV returned to action after the Christmas break with a league game against local rivals, Drybrook RFC 3rds.

Ross had a few players pull out leaving them light in squad numbers, whilst Drybrook were able to put out a huge squad of 20+ players, which proved to be the deciding factor in the game.

The first half was thrilling with Ross edging the scrimmaging and lineouts. However, midway through the half, Drybrook’s winger cut an acute angle to score.

Ross pounced back with a try from number eight, Dan Gould, who was on the end of some quality link up play from James Masey, Bas Parker and Joe Muldowney.

Captain Craig Powell converted. On the stroke of half time, Ross had the stuffing knocked out of them when Drybrook capitalised on a lineout on Ross’ five metre line and they mauled themselves over the try line.

In the second half, Drybrook used their subs, bringing on fresh legs against an already tiring Ross side.

Drybrook ran in three unanswered tries in a 30 minute spell, but Ross rallied in the final ten minutes, putting in some controlled passages of play.

Shaun Murphy was hitting the ball up front and the re-cycled ball was spun through the backs, but it was the odd forward pass or knock on that prevented Ross from getting over the line.

It was a thoroughly entertaining game and Ross did themselves proud against such a huge Drybrook squad which had a lot of experience.

There were noted performances from wingers TC Leach and Joe Muldowney, but Ross-on-Wye’s man of the match was second row James Masey. This week, the team are away to Kingswood in a friendly fixture.