Bracknell book final spot

Published 24 Mar 2010 12:00 0 Comments

BRACKNELL RFC head coach Ken Hopkins praised the character of his side after they came from behind against local rivals Redingensians on Tuesday evening before booking their place in the Berkshire Cup final.

Tries by prop Richard Hoskins, number eight Niko Maybury and versatile back Luke Carter set Bracknell on the way to thrilling 25-21 victory under floodlights at Old Bath Road.

But it was not all plain sailing for the Lily Hill Park boys.

A delighted Hopkins said: "It was a cracking win for us. It was a very exciting cup tie in front of a very big crowd. It was tight all the way along and we should showed great character in the end to prevail after falling behind twice."

Both sides put out full-strength teams for the county cup clash and exchanged early penalties with Peter Freeth's successful kick for Gensians being cancelled out by Bracknell skipper Ben Nowak.

A converted James Dunne try then put the hosts into a 10-3 first half lead, but Bracknell levelled just before the break when Hoskins touched down after a catch and drive, and Nowak converted.

After the break Gensians stole in front again with two Freeth penalties, before Bracknell came fighting back once more.

Nowak reduced the arrears with another succesful kick before Maybury and Carter touched down for well-taken tries to put Bracknell 25-16 clear.

Andy Tweedie crossed for Gensians late on, but Bracknell held on to book a final date with Berks, Bucks & Oxon Premier Division leaders Broadmoor Staff.

Hopkins said: "It is another local derby and one we are looking forward to. It will be a good way to finish the season.

"Because they play at a lower level there are certain conditions we have to follow. We can only play five first team players, so it should be a good game."

The final will be played at Lily Hill Park on Sunday, April 25.

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