Matson too strong for nomads

With the sun shining at last this match was played in excellent conditions. Nomads were pleased to have the return of two injured players in Finn Sharp and Harry Phillips. Matson were swiftly out of the blocks with their large pack dominating the early exchanges and it was no surprise when they took the lead with a catch and drive from a lineout in the Stroud 22. Nomads came more into the game with their forwards beginning to win more ball for their quick backs. A good run by fly half Finn Sharp led to a good interchange of passing amongst the Nomads backs leading to scrumhalf Joe Little scoring their first try. With the Matson pack winning plenty of scrimmage and lineout ball, a good chip and chase by their fly half led to their second try. Stroud continued to play open rugby and wing Kai Thomas, making his first appearance for the club chased his own kick ahead and won the race to Nomads second try, which he converted. With the first half nearing the end another good backs move gave Stroud wing Fred Stephenson the chance to score an unconverted try.

Unfortunately for Nomads injuries to Finn Sharp, Joe Little and Kai Thomas did not allow them to start the second half, with veterans Rob Davey and Andre Sharp joining the fray. Matson upped their work rate throughout this half and soon exposed a static Stroud defence by scoring two quick converted tries. With very little ball to work with Nomads were kept on the defensive for most of the half with some excellent tackling from wing forward Tom Flanagan and wing Fred Stephenson. However, Matson continued to score at regular intervals during the half and eventually ran out worthy winners.

A good first half display by Nomads, but injuries to key players left them with an uphill battle in the second half. Man of the match wing Fred Stephenson.

Next match : Nomads v Opponents to be arranged 20th March 2016.