Nomads kick off season in style

The team although depleted through calls to the 1st XV were indebted to several more mature players including Geoff Ashenford, Andre Sharp and Rob Shipton who turned out and played their part in the win. Saracens were soon on the attack from the kickoff and only good defensive work from new captain Chris Toon and his fellow threequarters kept them at bay. However, a promising passing movement from inside their own 22, gave new winger Mike Cross the opportunity to outstrip the Saracens defence and score at the posts. Joe Ashenford (son of Geoff) added the conversion. Almost immediately Mike Cross made intercepted a wayward pass and scooted over for his second try, again converted by Joe Ashenford. Saracens amounted several further attacks but once again excellent tackling by Ian Bushell and Cory Baker stopped them from scoring. With half time beckoning Stroud were awarded a 5metre scrum and a good pick up and drive by No 8 Bill Bailey, making his debut, further increased the Nomads score, the conversion was missed.

The first 20minutes of the second half was played in the Stroud half, with Saracens making all the running and being rewarded with two tries in the space of 5 minutes, one being converted. Nomads were finding it difficult to get out of their half, but an excellent break by scrum half Joe Ashenford gave centre Chris Toon the opportunity to cut through the Saracens defence and score near the posts, converted by Joe Ashenford. With both sides tiring Stroud introduced Rob Davey and James Stevenson to the fray, the fresh legs making an instant impact with a bullocking run from Rob Davey giving winger Mike Cross the opportunity to score his third try, converted by Joe Ashenford. With the last play of the game a good run and off load by 2nd row Lee Marshall gave substitute winger James Stevenson the chance to round off the scoring for the Nomads with the final try converted by Joe Ashenford.

A good start to the season.

27th September 2014 - Nomads fixture to be announced.