Cirencester returned to winning ways with an emphatic victory over Old Cryptians on Saturday.

Ciren played their first home game in seven weeks, and knew that they had to be on top form to beat Cryptians.

The visitors were sat above Ciren in the league before kick-off but the result saw the hosts move into the top three and leapfrog their opponents.

The game kicked off in cold and wet conditions but the home side were playing as if it was a fine day, keeping the ball for multiple phases, which resulted in the game’s first try by the impressive Ciren full back Zeb Waite who sprinted over after some accurate passing. Joe Hammond had a hard angle to work with but hit a great conversion to make the score 7-0.

The away side then got themselves back into the game with two quick fire penalties, after some ill-discipline from Ciren. Once again, the hosts gained control scoring next through Hammond who was in great form with the boot, adding a penalty 10-6.

Matt Berry was next on the score sheet for the home side with a powerful burst to the line to score 15-6. Cirencester were becoming dominant in the scrum, pushing their opponents off their scrum ball, allowing the wok horse Ciren blindside James Renowden to gather the ball and score, Hammond again adding the conversion 22-6.

As the game wore on Ciren took complete control, with a dominant forward display, Darren Stephens tight head scored crashing over from close range, Hammond added the conversion. 29-6.

As the latter stages of the game approached the conditions deteriorated further but the home side continued to try and play some rugby, which resulted in the lively centre Will Armitage scoring, again Hammond kicking a great conversion to make it 36-6.

The final try of the game was scored by the hard-working scrum half Sam Griffiths who dummied and showing great strength crashed over. Final score 41-6. Cirencester produced some great rugby considering the conditions on the day, the performance was built on solid forward foundation with Darren Stephens having an outstanding game.

Cirencester moved up the table into third.

There are just five points between the top three, and move to the turn of the season in a strong position.