THORNBURY consolidated second place in the table with a four-try win at Stroud. Thorns played with an intensity Stroud were unable to deal with and became the first visiting side to win at Fromehall Park this season.

After an even opening period Thornbury demonstrated their desire to attack and their speed of thought which created two half chances for tries which were not taken. Midway through the first half Sam Olde counter-attacked from deep in Thornbury territory. The move was taken on by Dai Matthews and Dan Hussey, who sent Alex Kane into space but he was tackled short and Stroud cleared. However, Thorns were not to be denied and a high Matthews kick was won by Hussey, who chipped behind the Stroud defence for Olde to score the opening try. Close to half-time Thorns were awarded a scum in midfield just inside the Stroud 22. Stroud got a nudge on but Stuart Adams got the ball clear. Tim Stephens made a fine run down the narrow side, drew the defence and passed inside for Alex Kane to score the try. The conversion hit the crossbar but Thorns went into the break 10-0 ahead.

Stroud restarted the match by kicking the ball directly to Adam Hodgkins who ran hard upfield. The ball was recycled and after six phases of play Dan Hussey crashed over for an excellent team try.

The home side kept the ball tight but Thornbury tackles were powerful and aggressive, and pressurised Stroud into errors. Thornbury were awarded a penalty in the Stroud 22‚ and Matthews took it to himself and strode over for the fourth try. Stephens’ conversion put Thorns 22-0 ahead.

Stroud enjoyed their best period of the game in the final quarter, controlled possession and pressurised Thornbury, attacking down channels close to the scrum. Although the visiting defence was good Stroud wing Matt Fogarty slid through and scored an unconverted try wide out. With minutes remaining Stroud scored again through replacement Hector Cobbe but Thornbury held out for a deserved and valuable victory of powerful forward play, good defence and excellent movement of the ball.

Thornbury will need to be at their best this Saturday when an improving North Bristol side come to Cooper’s Farm, 2.30pm.

Thornbury scorers: Tries - Sam Olde, Alex Kane, Dan Hussey, Dai Matthews; Conversion - Tim Stephens.