CROWTHORNE RFC produced a brave performance but were ultimately beaten 33-5 at BB&O Premier champions elect Gosford All Blacks, writes Richard Ashton.

The opening exchanges proved even, and it was the visitors who had an early shot at goal, only for Doug Charman’s (pictured) kick to drift wide of the right upright.

This proved costly when All Blacks took a 15th-minute lead through scrum half Rob Woods. Chris Bennett landed the conversion to make it 7-0.

Crowthorne came back strongly and forced several attacks near the Gosford line. They were only prevented from scoring by the alertness of Woods, who kicked clear on three occasions.

The hosts moved further ahead through a Will Watts try, but All Blacks flanker Dan Hughes was sin-binned shortly before the break.

Crows made a dream start to the second half when centre Rhys Carnie broke through to score.

However, they suffered a blow when Karl Crosbie was yellow carded, and Gosford wing Miles Johnson then crossed in the corner before Bennett’s kick made it 21-5.

Sutton got his name on the scoresheet with the bonus-point try, and the hosts added another with Johnson’s second converted effort.

Fifth-placed Crowthorne return to action with a home game against Hungerford on Saturday, April 16.