Friendly

Minchinhampton 3rd XV (Tups) 28

Cirencester 3rd XV 36

FIVE minutes into this friendly encounter with Cirencester's 3rd XV seemed like a long time to the Tups, who found themselves 14 points down having hardly touched the ball.

However they sparked into life as Bertie Fisher rampaged through several tackles to score the first of a brace of tries.

Minch’s scrum was superb all game, the front row of Moore, Cooper and Burke winning all their own ball and around five against the head. This kept them in the game, because strong running from Ciren's backs was threatening to overwhelm Minch, resulting in a couple more tries from the visitors.

Resolute defending from Brookman and Weaver held the line and then a starring performance from young Oscar Adamson stunned a captivated crowd.

Two quick tries mesmerised the opposition who were forced to pay him some rather heavy attention to stop a third.

Cameo performances came in from Clarke and Evans, while Charlie Beard impressed until forced to retire because of a clash of heads.

Captain Eagles was justifiably proud of this first foray for Minch thirds this season.