Forest Combination Junior Cup

Newent Phoenix 30 Lydney United 24

NEWENT RFC’S Phoenix claimed an exciting win over Lydney United in the Forest Combination Junior Cup quarter-final under the lights at Stade de Rec on Friday, reports PAUL DANDO.

Newent kicked off toward Akerman’s Orchard and spent most of the first 10 minutes camped inside the Lydney 22.

And the home side weren’t to be denied when centre Tom Morgan scored a neat try which Henry Howe converted (7-0).

Newent maintained the pressure and were rewarded with a penalty, but the ball hit a post and stayed out.

After mauling the ball near the home line, Lydney were then awarded a penalty try which also earned Newent a yellow card (7-7).

And they soon scored another unconverted try in the right-hand corner through hooker Wilf Doyle-Finch for a 7-12 lead at half-time.

Lydney went further ahead with another unconverted try by Oskar Sipowicz 10 minutes into the second period (7-17).

But on 60 minutes, Howe landed a penalty to keep Newent in the game (10-17)

And soon after, Joe Heron finished a strong left-flank move with a well-taken unconverted try in the left corner to cut the deficit to just two points (15-17).

Lydney came back strongly and a certain try was only foiled by a brilliant Sam Woolley tackle.

But a big scrummage led to a try for United by winger Max Turner, converted from near the touchline by Olly Spender to make it 15-24.

Newent weren’t done yet though, and responded with a move that went from left to right, before a break by Woolley put Sam Goatley over for 20-24 .

And the hosts followed up with another try after a flowing move from halfway, scored by skipper Harry Davies and converted by Howe to take the lead 27-24.

Newent were then able to close out the game with a penalty by Howe for a 30-24 win as the whistle went for full time.

Meanwhile, Newent RFC have paid tribute to former player Graham Wheatley, who has passed away.

The club posted: “Graham played at prop or back row for the club during the early 1980s and was also always keenly involved in the social side of the club. He was a great singer of rugby songs and had a vast repertoire.

“Our thoughts, as always, are with his family at this time. The funeral will take place at Gloucester Crematorium. Tuesday, March 3, at 1pm.”

Elsewhere, Ross RFC are looking for a new club secretary, who is “organised, proactive, and passionate about community sport“.

The club posted: “As club secretary, you’ll help keep the club running smoothly both on and off the pitch.

“You’ll work closely with committee members coaches and volunteers, to support the administration of the club.

“Key Responsibilities: Coordinating meetings and taking minutes –Managing club communications and correspondence – Maintaining club records and documentation – Helping ensure governance and compliance tasks are up to date.

“What We’re Looking For: Strong organisational and communication skills – Reliable and enthusiastic team player – Basic admin or committee experience (helpful but not essential) – A passion for rugby and local community sport.”

Anyone interested can message the club on its Facebook page, email [email protected] or call chairman Andy Hunt on 07968 905239.

Newent 1sts host Bromsgrove this Saturday, while Ross host Longlevens 2nds.