A HERCULEAN effort from Newent’s front row brought them from the brink to be crowned champions of the Forest Combination Senior Cup on Saturday.

Newent Rugby Club overturned a 21-0 deficit to beat Cinderford United 22-21 at the final at Lakers Road.

Green Army director of rugby Andy Addis said the victory was a real testament to their players and coaches.

“Ross McMillan and Pete Kingston are superb coaches and we’ve got a great bunch of young players who want to learn, improve and succeed,” he said.

“Our front row demolished Cinderford on Saturday. It must have been heartbreaking for them.

“It was an outstanding effort from the team.”

The cup victory rounds off a successful season for the Watery Lane club, who just missed out on a play-off spot in the South West One West division.

The club are hoping to reinforce their side with some experienced players ahead of next season.

Addis added: “It was disappointing for us to miss out on the play-off points but we’re looking forward.

“We’re looking for a couple of new players, in particular experienced old heads to take the club forward.

“We’re not going to let life pass us by. You’ve got one shot at life and we’re going to take it.”

John Moore, club chairman, was surprised to see Cinderford take such a lead without a response from the Green Army in the first half.

He said: “After they were 21 points up I was hoping for us to get some points for respectability.

“But for us to fight back like that and win, well it was nail-biting stuff.

“Our win reinforces the point that we’re doing a lot for the town.

“We’re winning cups that are being reported in newspapers and people are hearing of Newent from further afield. We’re great ambassadors for the town.

“It’s not about getting a clubhouse, or me as chairman or the committee, it’s about getting the players the facilities they deserve.”