After an opening day win away in Bristol, Ross were looking to continue the winning streak that has already contained two North Midlands Cup victories. In perfect rugby conditions Ross were too powerful, accurate and clinical, running in nine tries to one and a convincing 55-5 win. As a contest the match was decided within the first twelve minutes, as a whirlwind opening saw Dan Field, Gareth Holdsworth, Craig Smith and Tom Harris score tries putting Ross 24-5 up halfway through the first quarter.

Throughout the contest the front five of Dave Green, Craig Boughton, Matt Redman, Ollie Floyd and Wayne Williams completely outplayed their opponents dominating their own and Cheltenham's scrums. This denied Cheltenham a platform to build a game and they were forced to attack off scraps of possession. With back row Chris Thomas again heroic in defence they were forced into aimless kicks, giving possession back to Ross. Scrum half Gareth Holdsworth was a constant thorn in Cheltenham's side, sniping around scrums and rucks. This put Ross on the front foot and tries came at regular intervals with Gavin Oates, Tom Harris, a brace from Huw Bellamy and Gareth Holdsworth adding another two to complete his hatrick which saw Ross to a very comfortable 55-5 win.

For the full story please see this week's Ross Gazette.