Nomads undone at the last

The early exchanges were typical of a local derby with both sides looking to take the initiative, but neither taking advantage of some early chances.

Towards the latter part of the first half the Nomads forwards exerted extreme pressure on the Painswick try line, but were unable to take several chances due to a determined Painswick defence, with a penalty kick by fly off half Cory Baker being their only success.

With the last play of the first half Painswick encamped on the Stroud line were rewarded with a converted try after their full back broke the Nomads line and scored near the posts.

Early in second half a Nomads passing movement broke down and the Painswick winger ran from inside his own half to score a try which was duly converted.

This setback seemed to inspire the Stroud forwards who took complete control. The first Nomads try came from a scrum near the Painswick line, when number 8 Jess Owens broke clear to score after the Nomads pack had driven the Painswick pack over their own try line. The Stroud forwards continued their dominance but a stout Painswick defence kept them out.

However, further excellent work by Sam Davies, Rupert Wakefield and Neal Broadbent led to a second try for the Nomads with captain Rob Davey crashing over for an unconverted try. With time running out good play by the forwards once again gave Nomads the chance to secure further points, with Painswick transgressing at a scrum, Cory Baker kicked the resultant penalty.

From the kick off Painswick won the ball and with the last kick of the match the Painswick fly half kicked a 25 metre drop goal to give them the narrow win.

Next match : Stroud Nomads v Old Centralians 2nd XV at home on Saturday 2nd March 2013 ko 2.30pm