Hudson’s last-gasp try helps Barnes escape

IT TOOK a dramatic Barnes fightback from a 2210 deficit at the interval to secure a battling draw in the dying moments.

James Moffat put Cinderford ahead with an early penalty before home prop Tariq Al Khaldi replied with an unconverted try.

Moffat soon restored the visitors’ lead with a fine individual try, which he also converted.

A lineout catch and drive enabled Cinderford to score again through flanker Aaron Ryan with Moffat converting once more for the visitors.

But Barnes refused to lie down and responded with a try from winger Fraser Carlisle.

Just before half-time the visitors extended their lead when hooker Henry Walker touched down.

The second half was a fairly even affair, as defences generally dominated.

But Barnes were able to take advantage of an increasing lack of discipline from their opponents which eventually saw them reduced to 13 men in the closing stages, allowing replacement Robbie Martey to cross for a try which Tom O’Toole converted.

And with the time very nearly up on the clock, Harry Hudson went over to snatch a valuable draw. And though O’Toole had a chance to complete the most remarkable of escapes, his conversion attempt drifted wide and Barnes were forced to settle for a draw.