Paignton progress to the quarter-finals of the National Community Cup

Paignton Rugby Club produced a stunning finale to book their place in the last eight of the National Community Cup with a 22-21 victory at Nailsea & Backwell.

The Cherries were trailing 21-12 at the half-time break, Tom Osborn and Alex Pozniak crossing the whitewash, but they rallied brilliantly in the second period.

David Siddall and Henry Hoare notched the crucial tries, as Paignton fought off a brave resistance from the hosts to record a win that will live long in the memory.

“It was a really tight, intense match—the side playing with the slope had a clear edge in holding on to possession,” said Head Coach Martin Worthington. “Ultimately, it boiled down to who could convert their chances in that 40-minute period.

“We created plenty of opportunities, stayed patient, and managed to finish the decisive one right at the death.

“Delighted with how the lads performed overall. It’s always a tough venue—they haven’t lost at home in two full seasons—so grinding out that win and progressing to the next round feels massive. On to the next one!”