Sat 20 Sep 2025
It took a while for this game to get going, with Longlevens never quite finding their full rhythm, but the Griffins still showed plenty of grit to secure a 31–17 victory over a much-improved Cheltenham side.
Cheltenham came into the match on the back of two heavy defeats but looked to have recruited well, producing a far stronger performance than in previous weeks.
The opening score came through Isaac Meredith, who finished well out wide, with Brad Wilkins adding the extras. Cheltenham hit back almost immediately, levelling the game at 7–7 before edging ahead with a penalty, 7–10.
Just before the break, young back-rower Tom Hayes powered over for Longlevens, capping an impressive first half from him and sending the Griffins into the interval with a narrow 14–10 lead.
The second half remained scrappy, and Longlevens paid the price when a loose pass was picked off for an interception try, swinging the scoreboard back to 14–17.
That setback sparked the Griffins into life. Meredith crossed again for his second try, unconverted, to nudge Longlevens back ahead at 19–17. Man of the match Steve Phillips then capped his industrious display with a well-deserved try, extending the lead to 26–17. The final word went to Piers Fortey, who crashed over from close range to seal the 31–17 win.
It wasn’t a vintage performance, but Longlevens showed plenty of character and resilience against a revitalised Cheltenham team. With maximum points secured, the Griffins head into the break in good shape. Next up: a short trip down the road for a local derby against Old Centralians.
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