Lydney Undone by new breed of Wanderer

The Wanderers began their 2014 League campaign with the perfect start at Station Rd in the blazing Saturday sun.
Newly promoted Lydney came fresh faced across the Severn Bridge to face an equally young squad of exciting new talent.
A few late injuries and changes saw newcomer Alex Haines slide into the 10 shirt to replace George Thomas and would hooker Mike O'Rielly bravely stepped into the vacant scrum-half slot.

After a 15 minute spell of intense Clifton pressure it was the home side that drew first blood with the oldest player on the pitch (by some way!) full-back Allan Williams went over in the corner.
Lydney struggled to cope with Clifton's barrage of phases and it wasn't long before new second row Royce Chiddle went over from close range. Haines converted both tries impressively to give Clifton a decent breathing space, however it was Lydney who were unlucky not to claw a try back on the stoke of 40mins as their No.8 was deemed to have been held up over the line.
A long range penalty though gave the visitors some hope taking the score at half time 14-3.

As the afternoon sun rolled over the Severn, Clifton began to take a strangle hold on the game as centre Luke Blizzard split the Lydney back line in to after some impressive continuity play. Haines again converted the extras before Clifton struck the decisive blow.

A penalty kick to the corner saw a well drilled catch and drive move put number 9 O'Rielly over for a well deserved try that will have left forwards guru Scott McGrath pleased with the weeks shift.

The final score 28-3. The Wanderers long season march begins and extends coach Mark Nichols 5 year unbeaten run on the 'Fortress back pitch'.

Next week sees Whitehall 2nds visit Station Rd.