CINDERFORD Colts were crowned Combination Cup champions after delivering a composed performance against Berry Hill Colts.

Berry Hill began the first-ever competitive meeting between the two sides brightly, enjoying early possession and testing Cinderford’s resolve.

They were met by a well-organised and disciplined Cinderford defence that quickly settled into the contest at Lydney’s Regentsholme ground.

Once Cinderford secured some ball, their backs showed excellent hands and attacking intent, repeatedly counter-attacking from deep and turning defence into attack, providing a strong platform for their forwards to work from.

Early tries from Hopkins and Hemms gave Cinderford the advantage before Heal added a third.

First half scoring was completed when Alexander crossed from close range to cap a strong first-half display, establishing a 22-0 lead.

Berry Hill emerged for the second half with renewed intent and enjoyed a long spell of possession in the Cinderford half, but were unable to break the defence.

It was Cinderford who scored next, Phillips swooping on a lose ball and going unopposed the length of the field to score.

Cinderford fly-half Caldy then added two tries, the first an excellent piece of individual skill and the second rounding off a flowing team move.

Berry Hill rallied late, scoring two tries in quick succession and threatening a third but Cinderford held firm, and they again turned defence into attack through the phases eventually leading to Hamm crashing over the line for a final score of 46-14.

This completed Cinderford's season and the end of the Colts journey for most of the team, winning and lifting of the Combination Cup ensuring it was a memorable day. The final was a great show piece of local Colts rugby the match being played in the right spirit throughout. Credit goes to Berry Hill’s young side who have a bright future ahead of them next season.