Gloucester Three

Smiths (Industries) 25 Minchinhampton 7

MINCHINHAMPTON lost their unblemished Gloucester Three record in the top-of-the-table clash with Smiths.

Bidding to make it 10 wins in as many games, Minchinhampton had missed some game time when they were awarded a walkover in their most recent scheduled match.

But they started brightly and put pressure on their hosts from the off.

However, a missed Minch penalty in the first few minutes was bettered by the hosts immediately afterwards and momentum gradually swung to Smiths.

Smiths closed down the Minch back line quickly, made the best of decisions at the breakdown, and ultimately took the opportunities they created.

Strong running from Smiths' back three created two tries in the first half, and the pack added a third from a five-metre line-out, making it 20-0 at half-time.

Minch responded strongly in the second half, finding renewed vigour and determination.

Changes to the back line following injuries in the first half disrupted their rhythm, however, and they couldn’t find a game plan to answer the hosts’ rush defence.

Smiths made a nuisance of themselves at the breakdown and despite improved possession and some determined running the visitors couldn’t penetrate.

Eventually penalties gave Smiths another chance to work a try from close range.

The visitors would not give up and managed to get on the scoresheet after prolonged pressure.

Even an endless string of penalties on the hosts' line couldn’t persuade the referee to punish Smiths, but it did finally create a small gap which Fitzcharles managed to snipe through for a well-deserved try under the posts.