Sat 27 Apr 2024
Kingsbridge RFC 29 - 19 Frome RFC
Frome season ends with loss in Cup Quarter Finals.
Report by Trevor Osborne
Frome travelled to South Devon to meet Kingsbridge RFC in the quarter finals of the Papa John's Community Cup, South Plate, having won two hard fought victories in the previous fixtures.
The home side started stronger with the Fly Half using his knowledge of the sloped pitch to pin Frome back in their own half.
After a number of hard carries by the Devon sides forwards and despite some staunch defence lead by Flanker Sam Bartlett and No.8 Eliki Bainimoli a gap was created and the home side scored a converted try.
Kingsbridge continued to press and with Frome down to 14 men they worked to ball out wide for the Winger to score and increase the lead to 12 points.
Frome were hit with a double injury blow when they lost Hooker John Benstead, and Fly Half Simon Westlake.
Frome then started to build some pressure and with the Second Row combination of Dan Castle and Stevan Randall carrying hard, an opportunity was created for Flanker Josh Hills to score Frome’s first points of the day, the conversion added by Full Back Henry Bull to leave the first half score 12-7.
HT: Kingsbridge RFC 12 - 7 Frome RFC
The second half started with the home side continuing to pressure the Frome line ,they increased there lead through a penalty in front the posts shortly after.
The home side were now well on top and looked to have put the tie out of Fromes grasp with 2 well taken converted tries.
However there was a signs of a possible come back when the Frome players upped their game and with the forwards carrying hard and Scrum Half Zach Bartlett dictating play, the visitors got back in the game with a try from close range by Prop Phil Clarke.
The visitors continued to press and from a penalty in front of the posts Bull took a cross field kick which was gathered by Winger Simon Finch who beat a couple of defenders to score under the posts. Bull quickly took the conversion to further reduce the deficit. However time was running out and this proved to be the last score of the game and Kingsbridge took the win and progressed to the semi final.
Geoff Taylor's men can be proud of their efforts on the day and during the season and wish Kingsbridge good luck in the semi final.
FT Kingsbridge RFC 29 - 19 Frome RFC
Frome RFC Club Captain, Geoff Taylor commented “Unfortunately with the loss this weekend that brings an end to our rugby season.
I would like to personally thank every player, member of staff and supporter involved with Frome RFC throughout this season, we have had a great season and the club is heading in the right direction which is something everyone can be proud of.
Now it’s time to enjoy a rest period and let bodies heal, I look forward to seeing all new and old faces up the lane when pre season starts.”
