Final countdown (From Gazette Series)

Final countdown

Stroud Combination Cup Semi-Final Dursley 10 Minety 5

A HARD-FOUGHT 10-5 win over Minety ensured that Dursley matched the achievements of both their second and third teams by reaching the final of a cup.

It was already a momentous day as, for what was believed to be the first time in the club's history, two sets of brothers played for Dursley.

Matt and Jo Bilous and Ed and Mike Kerr all contributed in a fine team performance.

The game turned out to be an evenly fought contest.

Dursley went ahead late in the first half when Minety lost possession near the Dursley 22.

Greg Allen counter attacked and launched a tremendous chip and chase that saw Brad Winchle win the foot race to gather the ball and go over for a try. Ed Burcher added the conversion.

Shortly before half-time, Burcher kicked a penalty to give Dursley a hard-earned 10-0 lead.

The second half began the same as the first with both sides cancelling out the attempts of the other.

Minety threw everything at the home side but their defence was awesome.

However, a tense final ten minutes ensued after Minety did finally breach the Dursley line for an unconverted try but thereafter the defence held firm.

Dursley now have three teams through to different cup finals with the second team playing this Sunday, April 23 against Wotton at Stroud Rugby Club.

The third XV and the first team both play their finals on Saturday, May 6 with both games being played at Stroud Rugby Club.