Round 7 - Cinderford v Albion

Next up is an away day to Cinderford.

Finishing 7th last season, 3 points behind Albion, Cinderford had a good start to the season winning three of their first four games and are unbeaten at home. However, two away defeats at the hands of Chinnor and Blackheath have left them languishing in 11th place. Cinderford may well be looking at this weekend as an opportunity to get back on track as historically this has not been a good fixture for Albion in the past. The last time Albion won at the Beavis Memorial Ground was back in 2016.

To date Cinderford have scored 13 tries but conceded 26 in their six outings to date, by comparison Albion have chalked up 33 tries, conceding 19 albeit against comparatively weaker sides. A significant proportion of Cinderford's tries have come in the second half of their games, notably, in all three of their wins this season they have scored tries to clinch a win. Equally they have also conceded a majority of tries in the second half although a lot of those were consequences of maulings from Blackheath & Chinnor.

Cinderford appear to have a strong pack, but exhibit weaknesses amongst the backs. Pressure here may well expose gaps in the defence as well as earning a few penalties.

The referee is expected to be Alan Chandrachud - This will be the 4th match he will have officiated in this season, all of them in National One. Only one card issued so far.

Whilst Albion would be expected to win against Cinderford this weekend they need to be wary of Cinderford's knack of coming from behind. Good discipline, reducing the risk of penalties will also reduce the number of attacking line-outs. Weather permitting, a fast-flowing game will put pressure on their back line which should in turn expose gaps in the defence. Ultimately, a solid 80 minute performance should seal the result.

Weather: Dry with sunny spells but a gentle breeze will make it feel a little chilly. Fresh gusts blowing across the pitch could make kick for goal a bit of a challenge. 

Players to watch - Nathan Taylor is their top try scorer with 3 tries this season. Also, former Albion favourite George Porter who has been at Cinderford since 2016 will be expected to start the game in the front row.

Prediction: Win for Albion, probably with a bonus point.

Other games of note: Chinnor (4th) take on Blackheath (3rd) - A must win for both sides in order to stay in touch with the leaders, Rams, who will be expected to take 5 points from Leicester Lions.