Thornbury's first visit to Lydney in nearly 30 years ended in defeat, despite another spirited performance.

The game started and before long the Thorns were on the attack. Sam Poustie making a clean break toward the Lydney 22 line.

It looked as thought the early pressure would result in a score for the away side, however a deliberate knock-on by Lydney defender halted progress. The referee refused to issue a yellow card to the culprit, and Lydney took full advantage, turning the ball over and clearing away minutes later.

The home side were the first to score, making space for their wing, who finished expertly under pressure to make it 5-0.

Shortly afterwards Jake Wood made a break, which Ben Phillips and Sam Evans took on in another move to the Lydney line.

Jack Hussey picked the ball up from the ruck, he stretched out of a tackle and grounded it for a try which the referee controversially disallowed.

Thornbury did get on the board when Wood and Jak Evans broke clear. They created space for Poustie who in turn fed the ball to Sam Evans who stepped inside and scored.

Half time came and went, with the scores level at 5-5, before the Thorns moved ahead just minutes into the second period.

A well-struck Tom Luke penalty found the mark, but Thornbury’s lead was short-lived as Lydney scored their second try from a driving lineout.

The match was tight but the bigger Lydney forwards began to control the game. Thornbury’s defence was excellent and they put constant pressure on the home team. Lydney extended their lead with a penalty then following a quickly-taken lineout they scored their third through the inside centre.

A further try, also from a driving lineout, gave Lydney the bonus point and an unassailable lead at 25-8 with time running out. But Thornbury wouldn’t lie down and attacked from the restart.

Luke took a quick penalty and reached out of the tackle to score, Wood then converted to make it 25-15 late on, with the Thorns refusing to give up on the match.

Lydney however, held on for the victory with Thornbury left deflated after another fantastic effort had been rewarded no points.

They now prepare for their next match against Hornets at home on Saturday at 3:00pm.