LYDNEY RFC made a winning start to their preparations for the new season as a last-minute try secured a 29-26 friendly victory over Welsh side Gwernyfed.

Following a delayed start due to RFU guidelines, Lydney finally got their 2026/27 campaign underway at Regentsholme with director of rugby Paul Morris fielding a 26-man squad.

The hosts have undergone significant changes during the summer, with Reece Boughton arriving as captain and experienced forward Alex Seville joining as a player and forwards coach.

Youngsters including Charlie Beddis and Harvey Heaven are also becoming established members of the first-team squad as Lydney look to blend youth and experience.

Tom Rowe gave the hosts the perfect start when he crossed after eight minutes, although Gwernyfed quickly responded to move 7-5 ahead.

Jack Cuthbert restored Lydney’s advantage with an impressive try, converted by Jake Hanley, before the visitors levelled the contest at 12-12 before half-time.

Gwernyfed started the second half strongly and moved 19-12 ahead, but Lydney responded to level the scores at 19-19.

Numerous replacements disrupted the rhythm of the game and the visitors capitalised on mistakes to regain the lead at 26-19.

However, Lydney refused to let the game slip away. Jack Knox crossed to reduce the deficit to two points before the hosts piled on the pressure during the closing stages.

After winning a succession of penalties close to the Gwernyfed line, Lydney eventually moved the ball wide for Tom Carney to score the decisive try and seal a 29-26 victory.

Morris said he was pleased to give most of his squad game time and experiment with new variations.

Lydney host Chepstow under the lights on Friday before facing Luctonians on September 19. Their league campaign begins away at Topsham on September 26.