Great start to Nomads season

his was a well earned victory by Nomads who battled hard throughout the game and were rewarded for their efforts with a late try and conversion. Stroud were soon into their stride and after defending a forward surge by the Sarries forwards, wing forward Bob Reid made a defence splitting run and good handling by the Stroud threequarters gave centre Chris Jones the chance to cross for the try which was converted by fly half and captain Ian Bushell.

Nomads forwards continued to make inroads into the Saracens half with second row Tom Warner making several strong runs and gaining good territory. Cheltenham came back into the half with their fly half looking extremely dangerous in open play and it was from a penalty kick that he reduced the arrears. Nomads immediately went back into the Saracens 22 and were awarded a penalty kick which was converted by Ian Bushell.

In the second half Nomads found themselves under immediate pressure but good defence from both backs and forwards kept their line intact. However, Saracens were not to be denied as their fly half converted his second penalty kick. With wing Jacob Marsh having to leave the field with cramp, veteran Rob Davey joined the fray with both teams looking to make the game safe. From a loose kick ahead by Nomads the Cheltenham full back used his considerable speed to cut through a static defence and score a try which was converted.

With No 8 Mark Szarga having to leave the field after hurting his neck, Jake Marsh rejoined the fray for Stroud. With time running out Nomads were awarded a penalty, from the resultant line out a good catch by Bob Reid gave scrum half Callum Gibbs the opportunity to release his backs with Jake Marsh running and excellent line to cut through and score near the posts, with Ian Bushell making the conversion, and referee blowing for time.