Missed chances cost Nomads win

This hard fought match was won by Gordon League in the final minute of the game. With the Nomads fielding a very experienced side with wing forward Mark Phillips, No8 Dave Clutterbuck and fly half Ian Bushell making welcome returns to the team. Both sides were unable to get any continuity into their play due to a continual award of penalty kicks against each side. Nomads always looked dangerous when the ball was given to their speedy backs with newcomer wing Sam Strange always looking quick with ball in hand. The first Stroud try came from an excellent threequarter passing movement with full back Peter Sykes interchanging passes with Sam Strange and scoring wide out.

Gordon League maintained pressure in the Stroud half with the strong wind helping them pin Nomads on the back foot. With the first half coming to a close Gordon League were awarded a penalty kick and from the ensuing lineout drove over for their first try. Almost from the kick off they attacked again and some poor defensive tackling allowed their winger to score in the corner.

The second half again was very attritional with neither side gaining an advantage, although Stroud had several forays into the opposition 22 without making the vital score. With Stroud fly half Ian Bushell having to leave the field, it brought on Mark Peer for his first game of his first game of the season and he was unlucky not to score from a short kick through. However, Nomads were not to be denied a second try after strong forward pressure gave full back Peter Sykes the opportunity to kick ahead and win the race to the touchdown.

Gordon League were soon back in front with their third try when after an uncontested scrum their scrum half scampered over the line. Stroud then came back strongly with Mark Phillips always to the fore and having an exceptional game and from further forward pressure Mark Peer chipped over the Gordon League defence and won the touchdown which was converted by captain and centre Cory Baker. A kickable penalty was then missed by Stroud and with time running out Gordon League mounted one last attack with their winger scoring in the corner.

Nomads will wonder how they came to lose this match and will regret the chances they missed in the second half. Wing forward Mark Phillips was made Stroud man of the match.

Saturday 1st October Nomads v Cheltenham Saracens (Away) ko 3pm
Glos and District Reserve League Match