FLY-HALF Grant Boucher contributed 21 points as Dursley overcame a stubborn Minety side, who are two divisions higher in the league structure, to progress into the Stroud Combination Cup final.
Early pressure from Dursley was shortlived as Minety gained possession and the large winger barged over the line to score in the corner and the larger centre converted for a seven-point lead.
The maroons seemed to lose their focus and despite good defence from Andy Plumridge, Andy Scott, and TJ Case, they fell foul of the referee.
This resulted in a rash of penalties of which two were converted to give the hosts a 13-point lead.
Dursley then upped the pace and good inter-play between James Sheldon and Alex Pain took play to the hosts 22 where the defence killed the ball and Boucher reduced the deficit with the penalty.
The kick off was deep and the Maroons brought trouble on themselves as they decided to run the ball from their 22 and spilt possession, giving the Minety centre an easy pick up and stroll over for a converted try. More penalties followed and Mark Perry received ten minutes rest as he questioned a decision.
Half time arrived with Dursley trailing 20-3.
Playing with 14 men, Milky Steele and Josh Case gained possession and gave Sheldon a running opportunity and he took the ball to the 22.
The home defence again killed the ball and scrum half TJ Case saw the opportunity for a trademark try and Boucher added the two.
Perry returned to the fray and from the kick-off Sam Alvis attacked the ball and motored to the home 22 and a refreshed Perry took the ball on and stormed over in the corner to further reduce the deficit to 20-18.
Dursley were surging forward at every opportunity and the penalty count moved in their favour. Boucher struck two kicks to give the Maroons a 24-20 lead.
Minety disrupted the young Dursley team with off the ball incidents and conjured up an unconverted try to lead 25-24 with minutes remaining.
The Maroons quickly took play into the home half and Tom Stevens was impeded for a penalty. Boucher stepped up and slotted the ball home.
The kick-off fell short and Dursley attacked again and another penalty allowed Boucher to seal the hosts fate.
Captain Brad Winchle said: “In recent weeks I have toured Amsterdam and Exmouth but not a sweeter taste have I had but this Minety air.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here