After two losses on the bounce, Ross got back to winning ways against a big Cheltenham outfit, winning 46-5.

Quick penalties were the order of the day and this ensured the the pace of the game remained red hot. Cheltenham were valiant in defence but were not able to slow the ball down and tries came at regular intervals. Fullback Alex Bound got a brace by keeping his width and finding himself on the end of some slick hands in midfield by Dan Field and Chay Brine, winger Billy Hambling joined him on two tries, again finding himself on the end of some slick hands and he could easily have added another two but the gusting wind proved difficult at times.

The rest went to the forwards with captain Gavin Oates, Casey Morgan, Matt Redman and Chris Thomas all finishing off some great rugby to take Ross' tally to eight tries. Scrum half Craig Powell added three conversions.

Ross continued with their policy of giving youth a chance by bringing on young prop Dave Lawrence and Mike Haile and credit to both of these young players that they did not look out of place in such a fast, high skill game. With the whole squad buying in and executing the game plan it would be churlish to pick out one player as the Hagesud Bosse man of the match. Next Saturday Ross are in cup action away to Harbourne in Birmingham, a 2.30pm kick off.

All officials at Ross RFC would like to wish sponsors, volunteers, players and supporters a very merry Christmas and a big thanks for your support. Don't forget the Famous Boxing day game when the Mature Cheeses (players of a certain vintage) take on the Spring Chickens (young, fit and strong) where experience and cynical play looks to outwit youth, so take the opportunity to go down and join in the fun, refreshments will be available.

For more stories in full please see this week's Ross Gazette.