IT was an end of a cup run for another year as Fordingbridge lost away to Trojans in the Hampshire Bowl 42-21.

Despite the fact that Trojans play in the league above Fordingbridge, it was an even game of rugby with the advantage ebbing and flowing between the two sides.

The game started well for the visitors when, after prolonged pressure on the Trojans line, the forwards set up a platform for Jordan Donaldson to touch down under the posts. Hammond added the conversion and the score was 7-0 Fordingbridge.

Following an infringement straight from the kick off Trojans had a chance to pull three back which they duly did.

For the next 15 minutes, the home side got into their rhythm and scored three tries, two converted to take their lead to 22-7.

However, Fordingbridge were still very much in the game and, with the forwards dominant in the scrum, pushed Trojans towards their try line.

The referee deemed their collapse of the scrum illegal and awarded a penalty try. The half ended at 22-14.

The second half gain started well for the New Forest side but after a period of prolonged pressure Trojans broke out of defence and with some superb off loading and support play scored.

Again, the home side took control and scored a penalty and three more tries taking their score to 42.

However, the last try of the game went to the visitors when again their dominance at the scrum enabled them to turn over a Trojans put in and the ball went through Steve Brown’s hands to brother Dan to score and, with the conversion good, the game ended at 42-21 to Trojans.

Fordingbridge coach John Stockley said: “There were positives to take from the game with their dominance in the set piece, but also a lot to learn from the speed and offloading abilities of the Trojans.”

Fordingbridge travel to neighbours New Milton on Saturday in the league.