THORNWELL dented old rivals Tintern's East Gwent League title hopes after edging a seven goal-thriller 4-3.

Ian 'Bubble'Jones gave Red and White the lead from the penalty spot, stroking the ball past the out-stretched hand of Abbey 'keeper Simon Phillips, following a hotly disputed hand-ball.

The home side doubled their lead before half-time when Jack Stewart crossed expertly to Mark Wilson who took the ball in his stride, rounded two defenders and slotted it home.

They maintained their two goal advantage until the break but it was Tintern who came out of the blocks quicker in the second half. And they were rewarded soon after when they capitalised on a rare defensive lapse from Anthony Vidler to make it 2-1.

Thornwell were then forced into a number of changes with first John James and then Ben Roberts leaving the field.

The substitutions seemed to spark Red and White back into life as they soon made it 3-1 through captain Jonathan Smith.

But the home side weren't done yet, saving the best until last. Spotting Phillips off his line, Liam Parker launched a free kick from inside his own half that flew over the 'keeper and into the net.

Tintern responded by throwing everything at Thornwell but despite salvaging two late consolation goals they were unable to claim a share of the points.

The win puts Red and White B into fifth place in East Gwent Two. Tintern are now third, a point behind Caldicot Castle A and Sudbrook Cricket Club.