ROSS RFC faced another tough challenge on Saturday at home to Old Cryptians, who dropped down to Counties 4 Tribute Gloucestershire North at the end of last season.

And it proved a tough afternoon as they went down 76-22, albeit the performance having many positives.

Keen to make a strong start, Ross were initially guilty of a few small errors halting promising attacking opportunities.

Old Cryptians pounced on the mistakes to cross twice for an early lead.

A series of powerful Ross set pieces then put pressure on the Crypts defence, and a well-executed driving maul close to the line allowed Thai Hayward to sneak over in the corner for a try.

Terry bursts through to score

Things got even better as Kieron Terry then burst through the defence to score, Ollie Thomas adding the conversion.

Crypts continued to score, but before half-time, Ross were back on the attack and again turned to the driving maul, with Hayward finishing well for his second try.

Hayward then completed his hat-trick after the break with another composed finish in the corner.

But as the game entered the final quarter, Old Cryptians found more space to attack, with their dangerous fullback taking advantage of gaps to extend their lead.

Mulhearn named Ross Man of the Match

Tomas Mulhearn was named Man of the Match for “a relentless work rate throughout, constantly looking to get involved in attack and make things happen”.

A club spokesperson said: “Despite the scoreline, this was arguably Ross’s best performance of the season so far.

“We showed real improvements in our attacking shape, put together multiple phases of play and tested the opposition defence.

“We also picked up our first try bonus point of the season – a positive step forward for the squad.”

And it’s derby day this Saturday afternoon (October 24), when they make the short trip to face Newent 2nds, who beat Cheltenham 2nds 57-24 away at the weekend.