Sat 28 Mar 2026
Bridgnorth RFC 94 – 5 Nuneaton RFC
Bridgnorth RFC delivered their most emphatic performance of the season with a ruthless 94–5 demolition of Nuneaton RFC at the Edgar Davies Ground, a result that mathematically secures at least a seventh-place finish and removes any lingering relegation concerns. The afternoon began in fine spirits off the field, with a well-supported pre-match lunch attended by visiting dignitaries. The event carried a strong charitable theme, raising funds and awareness for the Tough Enough To Care, Oddballs Foundation, and the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, setting a fitting tone for a day that would ultimately showcase both community values and clinical rugby. On the pitch, however, there was little room for sentiment. Nuneaton, still searching for their first win of a difficult campaign, found themselves up against a Bridgnorth side intent on finishing the season with purpose - and the hosts wasted no time in asserting control.
From the kick-off, safely gathered by Loti Molitika, Bridgnorth moved through the phases with precision before Jack Cole crossed for the opening try, converted by the ever-reliable Benji Ritson without Nuneaton laying a hand on the ball. Moments later, Matt Needham’s excellent 50:22 created a platform for Dan Robinson to strike quickly from a sharp lineout move. A brief setback followed when Needham saw yellow for a high tackle, and Nuneaton capitalised with a forward-driven try from close range. However, even that moment was tinged with Bridgnorth resistance, as Cole charged down the conversion attempt. Parity in discipline was restored soon after when Nuneaton were reduced to 14, and Bridgnorth’s pack took full advantage. Malachi Stuffins powered over from a penalty lineout, repeating the feat shortly after from a spell of sustained pressure to underline the hosts’ dominance at the set-piece.
With momentum firmly established, Bridgnorth’s attacking shape began to flourish. Jacob Tomkinson added another, and debutant Jobe Griffiths-Jones was introduced to first-team rugby in a match already slipping away from the visitors. Despite periods of determined Nuneaton possession, Bridgnorth’s defensive work - highlighted by Stuffins’ jackal turnover - consistently turned pressure into opportunity. Luke Brough’s incisive finish, cutting through multiple defenders, was followed by further enterprise as Adam Ellis adapted seamlessly to an unfamiliar role at loosehead prop. The first half closed with a flourish. Dan Brough’s elusive running created space for Cole to add his second, bringing the interval score to 49–5. Seven tries, seven conversions - Ritson flawless from the tee, told the story of a side operating with clinical efficiency.
The second half briefly lost its rhythm before Bridgnorth reasserted control. Stuffins completed a well-earned hat-trick with a powerful angled run, and almost immediately, a slick switch move between Dan Brough and Cole saw the latter complete his own hat-trick in style. To their credit, Nuneaton refused to capitulate, producing a prolonged defensive stand and continuing to probe in attack. Yet Bridgnorth’s depth told. James Barham crossed out wide - Ritson missing his first conversion of the afternoon, before the hosts regained their composure after a short spell of inaccuracy. Luke Brough added two further tries to complete his hat-trick, punishing defensive lapses and capitalising on turnover ball, while Tomkinson’s outstanding break set up Robinson for his second.
As the match wound down, there was still time for one final statement.
Dan Brough again split the defence before releasing Cole, who surged over for his fourth try of the match, sealing a remarkable 94–5 scoreline. There was even a touch of humour in the closing moments, with Playing Committee Chair Robin Padgett reportedly concerned the electronic scoreboard might not stretch to three figures, though a late forward pass spared it the test. Beyond the scoreline, this was a performance defined by focus and consistency. Fourteen tries - seven in each half, reflected a side that refused to let standards drop, even with the result beyond doubt. Cole’s four-try haul and Ritson’s 24-point kicking display epitomised that cutting edge.
For Nuneaton, the result was another harsh chapter in a challenging season, but their commitment to fulfilling fixtures deserves genuine recognition in difficult circumstances. There remains hope that a reset at a lower level will allow the club to rebuild. For Bridgnorth, attention now turns to the final fixture away at Stourbridge on April 11th, following the Easter break. With league status secured and momentum building, the closing chapter of the season offers an opportunity to reinforce the progress made - and to carry this attacking confidence forward. The only concern on an otherwise excellent afternoon will be the fitness of Ethan Pearce Cowley, with the club hoping his injury is not serious.
