Sat 4 Oct 2025
Bridgnorth RFC 38 – 12 Bromsgrove RFC
Bridgnorth RFC produced a dominant all-round display under the rain at
the Edgar Davies Ground to defeat Bromsgrove RFC 38–12 in an
entertaining and physical contest. From the opening whistle, the home
side’s intent was clear — fast handling, fierce tackling, and clinical
finishing earned them a four-try bonus point before half-time.
After an assured start, Bridgnorth’s first scrum provided the platform
for an early score. Hooker George Newman powered through the
Bromsgrove defence for the opening try, converted by Elliot Murphy.
The forwards set the tone with crunching hits, notably from Jonah
Boyce, while Bromsgrove’s physicality boiled over with a high tackle
from their number six.
Bridgnorth struck again through Ben Ralph, finishing a sweeping move
to double the lead, Murphy again adding the extras. Bromsgrove
responded with sustained pressure and were rewarded with a converted
try to close the gap to 14–7. Despite losing some referee decisions,
Bridgnorth’s defensive structure held firm, with Luke Brough and the
pack absorbing the onslaught.
As rain began to fall, Bridgnorth’s maul and lineout became decisive
weapons. Jacob Tomkinson’s accurate work in the air led to a powerful
run from Patrick Smallman, who sliced through soft Bromsgrove tackling
to score the third try, again converted by Murphy. Soon after, Morgan
French finished in the corner for the bonus point try, following a
clever steal by Loti Molitika. With two Bromsgrove players sent to the
bin, Bridgnorth went into the break leading 26–7.
The second half began as the first had ended — with Bridgnorth on the
front foot. Smallman and Boyce continued to drive the tempo, while
replacement hooker Malachi Stuffins slotted seamlessly into the pack
after Newman’s earlier injury. Despite Bromsgrove returning to full
strength, Bridgnorth maintained control through territory and
intelligent kicking.
A moment of class came when Reece Boughton chipped over the defence,
regathered, and set up Ralph and Benji Ritson to score under the
posts. Ritson converted his own try to extend the lead. Shortly after,
another chip from Boughton found Adam Ellis, whose slick handling
released James Barham to crash over for Bridgnorth’s sixth try. Windy
conditions denied a conversion as the ball blew off the tee before the
attempt, sparking minor tempers between the sides.
Bromsgrove mounted a late push and crossed for a consolation try
through their number ten, though his drop-goal conversion struck the
upright. Bridgnorth finished strongly, pressing deep into Bromsgrove
territory until the final whistle signaled a comprehensive 38–12
victory.
It was a complete performance from the home side — disciplined,
composed, and cohesive. Bridgnorth’s balance between forward dominance
and creative back play proved decisive, with no turnovers conceded and
superior game management throughout.
Next week, Bridgnorth face another stern test as they travel to the
Forest of Dean to take on Newent RFC.
