CHINNOR Director of Rugby Matt Williams was full of praise for his players after they dug deep to secure a dramatic 28-27 victory at home to Cinderford on Saturday.
Laurence May converted Will Harries’ try in the last play of the game to earn Chinnor a bonus-point win in a physical National League One contest.
Having dominated most of the second half it was the least Chinnor deserved, but they showed fantastic character to keep coming at a Cinderford side which defended heroically.
Williams said: “It was a great game, it always is. Chinnor versus Cinderford is a match that both clubs really look forward to. We always have a great arm wrestle and it was exactly that.
“The paying public really enjoyed the game and it went through to the final play when we got over the line.
“I’ve got to give huge credit to Cinderford’s defence – it was stellar. They kept us out time after time but eventually we got over in the corner and Laurence had to seriously keep his nerve for a difficult kick.
“Much credit to Laurence, but also much credit to our team for keeping going until the dying death. Weaker teams would have rolled over and lost but I’m really proud of the boys, they did a sterling job.”
PHOTO: Laurence May is mobbed by his teammates after converting in the last play to earn Chinnor the victory Picture: David Howlett.
The result helped Chinnor close the gap to third-placed Rosslyn Park, who lost at Plymouth Albion, to four points.
Williams added: “It was a huge win. The last two years Cinderford have come here and given us a good thumping.
“Backed on from the confidence of last week, to beat Cinderford by one point is all I could ask. To come away with a bonus point win is delightful.
“We’ve taken 10 points from two games now. You can see the confidence and camaraderie in the boys and we’ve just got to keep rolling now.
“It’s solely about worrying about ourselves and taking each game as it comes, but make no bones about it that was a huge win for us and I’m proud of the boys.”
May seemed to be the coolest person in the ground when stepping up to convert from the touchline.
The fly-half said: “It was great. I didn’t think I’d put enough on it at one point.
“We’ve got some great personalities at the club and it’s just great to get everyone around (at the end) and that feeling afterwards is just incredible.
“When we’re winning and playing great rugby, it’s one of the most enjoyable places to be.”
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