Max effort as Ross and Phoenix battle to draw

ROSS 1st XV and Newent Phoenix fought out a 20-20 derby draw at the Rec, as both sides battled each other and Storm Boelo in their Counties 4 Tribute Gloucestershire North fixture.

Despite terrible rain and wind, visitors Ross started strongly, with the forwards making dominant carries and the backs looking to move the ball in the difficult conditions.

A scrum close to the Newent line gave Ross the perfect attacking platform, and after a powerful carry from Max Roberts, who was judged just short of the line, Kieron Terry was on hand to finish the job.

Ross continued to stick to what was working, with the forwards laying the foundations and Roberts proving unstoppable from close range to add another try.

Newent then hit back through a kick ahead that proved difficult to deal with, allowing them to cross the line to get back into the game.

However, Ross continued to put the hosts under pressure inside their own 22 and Roberts soon rumbled over for his second try.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Ross pushing the Phoenix back into their own half, and another strong scrum creating the opportunity for Roberts to cross for his hat-trick.

But unfortunately the game then changed when scrums were forced to go uncontested.

Now with a platform, Newent were able to bring their dangerous backs into the game, moving the ball wider and taking advantage of the space.

And three second-half tries brought the scores level at 20–20, which is how the game finished.

Ross 'Man of the Match' was James Maisey, for his outstanding work rate and willingness to get involved in the attack throughout the full 80 minutes.

A club spokesperson said: "A battling performance from Ross in some horrible conditions. Disappointed not to come away with all the points, but there were plenty of positives."

Ross host Cheltenham 2nds at The Abbotts this Saturday.