RESURGENT Bracknell RFC stunned high-flying Dings Crusaders 17-16 to record a seventh National Three South West victory in nine games on Saturday.

Chris Laidler gave the visiting Lily Hill men an early lead with a penalty, only for Dings to hit back with a brace of penalties from Steve Plummer.

The Bracknell forwards carried hard, with Lachlan Valentine, James Ingle and Kim Plant gaining yards, but the most impressive feature of the visitors’ first half-performance was their claustrophobic defence, where Danial Carpo was outstanding.

Three players were sin-binned following a major scuffle before a second Laidler penalty ensured the sides went into the break level at 6-6.

Dings started second period stronger, but were rocked on 47 minutes when Peceli Nacamavuto intercepted an attack and ran the ball in wide out from 60 metres, Laidler missing the conversion.

The hosts hit back shortly after to score a converted try from close range, taking a 13-11 lead in the process.

A Laidler penalty put Bracknell back in front, only for the outstanding Mark Woodrow to land a drop goal to push Crusaders 16-14 up on 65 minutes.

However, Laidler’s fine game from the tee continued two minutes later with another penalty, and some heroic defence – aided by two missed shots at goal from the hosts – allowed Bracknell to hold on for a fine win.

Bracknell host Hornets on Saturday (2.15pm).

  • A GUTSY Crowthorne performance could not prevent them falling to a 27-12 home defeat to unbeaten BB&O Premier table-toppers Swindon College Old Boys.

Crows visit Chesham on Saturday (2.15pm).