National League Three
Play Off
Lydney 21, New Brighton 7
LYDNEY rejoined the ranks of the top 40 rugby clubs
in England, using their massive forward power to subdue Liverpool opponents New Brighton at Regentsholme.
It was never going to be pretty, but it was effective. Lydney restricted their error count by keeping play tight and with the monopoly of possession squeezed their visitors until they broke.
The reward was three well constructed tries scored by scrum-half and man-of-the-match Richard Turner, number eight Brett Scriven and full-back Adam Westall, who also kicked two penalty goals.
New Brighton gained some consolation with an injury time try.
Victory before a crowd of around 2,000 could earn Lydney a financial dab in the fist of around £60,000 from the Rugby Union to help finance them next season.
But it is unlikely to change the club's policy of not paying the players.
"There are huge overheads involved in Division Two. It is all too easy to spend money and end up in the mire – a lot of rugby clubs have already done that," said Lydney manager Gordon Sargent.
"Of course we will do our best for the players and there could be incentives such as an end of season tour. But for the moment we must take stock and reassess our strengths and weaknesses both on and off the field.
"The team has done the town and the Forest of Dean proud this season. They have provided plenty of excellent entertainment and the players are looking forward to the challenge of rugby in a higher league. They have been there before and know exactly what to expect. They will be meeting bigger, faster and more skillful teams and they are well aware it is a huge challenge," said Sargent.
Coach Pat Kiely already has an eye on strengthening the squad.
"We want to keep the team local and I know there are players in the Forest who can play at this level. All I ask is that they give it a try," he said.