Friendly

Cirencester 54 Widden Old Boys 0

CIRENCESTER began their pre-season programme with a 54-0 friendly win over Gloucester’s Widden Old Boys.

The hosts had picked a squad of 30 players to take part in the friendly, giving many a chance to impress the newly-appointed director of rugby Andy Deacon and his coaching staff. They certainly gave him a selection headache following the comfortable win.

Adam Eustace’s Widden OB side started brightly, but Cirencester’s stubborn home would not be breached. With new combinations all over the field, Cirencester gradually got into their stride and put their mark on the game.

Mike Wrona, who impressed throughout, scored in the opening period and Andy Waite successfully kicked the extras.

Opening exchanges continued to be scrappy, but Cirencester ended the half 14-0 ahead.

The second half saw an industrious display from the home side, with some notable performances from Alex Hammond, Scott Brandreth, James Fisher and debutant prop Seb Genillard.

Jack Lister also delivered a standout showing with quick and accurate distribution, cutting Widden’s defence to pieces.

A major plus for the Cotswold club was the returning Luke Fisher to the squad after a long injury lay- off. His destructive tackling will be a big boost for this season’s campaign.

As for Widden OB, the small, hard-working squad started to tire in the latter stages and Cirencester took full advantage.

Deacon’s men ran up a flattering 54-0 total, and will have benefited from a good work-out ahead of the 2015/16 season.

Coaches Matt Carter and James Fisher were delighted with the performance, and equally pleased with the large turn-out to see Cirencester’s first win of the campaign.

Cirencester’s pre-season schedule concludes with a home game against Coney Hill on August 29 at 3.00pm.

It will be a big weekend for the club with the Cirencester RFC beer festival and family fun day taking place. All are welcome. For more information go online at www.crfc.co.uk