National League One

Cambridge 25

CINDERFORD conceded 17 unanswered points in the second half to lose a game that was theirs for the taking.

A strong wind blowing straight down the pitch did not make things easy, but winger Nev Codlin says that was no excuse for defeat.

"We took our foot off the pedal," he said.

"I don't like blaming referees but he didn't seem to pick up obvious penalties and we got turned over a few times.

"It's massively frustrating to lose because we all want to finish as high as we can.

"The coaches weren't happy but we've got to take it on the chin and keep going."

With the elements in their favour Cinderford got quickly into their stride and winger Codlin touched down for an unconverted try after just three minutes of play.

Rory Teague made up for his missed conversion kick by landing a penalty. He then converted Simeon James's try as the Foresters cruised into a 15-0 lead.

Cambridge, so often Cinderford's bogey side, hit back with a try from speedy winger Patrick Tapley and an Elliot Bale penalty.

Some slick handling by the backs set up full-back Mike Wilcox for a third try five minutes before half-time to give Cinderford a cosy 20-8 advantage. Cambridge showed good spirit to chip away at that lead. They improved their work at the breakdown, tightened up their defence and also cut off Cinderford's supply of ball to danger man Codlin.

Albert Portsmouth took advantage of a missed tackle to score, then Alex Smith intercepted a loose pass from Luke Carter in the 22 and raced in under the posts.

Adam White's conversion levelled things up at 20-20 after 62 minutes.

Aided by some more sloppy play from Cinderford the home side kept up the pressure and it was fitting that their best player, number eight Steve Hipwell, should grab the winning try eight minutes from time.

Cinderford: Mike Wilcox, Nev Codlin, Simeon James, Rob Winchle, Rory Teague, Danny Pointon (Luke Carter 60), Joe Smart, Sam Wilkes (Tom Bozzard 50), Chris Bundy, Rich Mountford, Ed King, Luke Allen (capt), Will Foden, Ben Sparks (George Evans 50). Reps not used: Lee Fortey, Pete Towers.