It was a memorable day in Cardiff for UoG, as both the Men’s Rugby League side and the Men’s Football 1st Team returned home with wins at the BUCS Conference Finals: Western, hosted by Cardiff University.
Rugby League produced a dominant display to defeat Warwick 54–10. Their preparation wasn’t ideal, with traffic on the journey meaning a delayed kick-off and a shortened warm-up, but the disruption didn’t show once the game began.
Gloucestershire started quickly and built momentum through a mix of well-worked team tries and strong individual finishes. Their defence was just as impressive, keeping Warwick scoreless in the first half and laying the platform for a commanding performance.
George Groves and Oli Winterbottom both crossed three times, while Joe Capener added two tries of his own. Vini Alves, Jake Wragg, Finn Harvey and James Boyles also got on the scoresheet, with Mason Apsee adding the conversions.
Warwick managed a couple of second-half tries, but Gloucestershire stayed composed and finished the game strongly to close out a win.
The result ends an outstanding season, finishing the league unbeaten, a secured promotion and add the conference cup to their achievements. There is still more to come as the team look ahead to a 9s tournament next week. Credit goes to coach Jay Woodley, who has guided the Club through an excellent season.
Not long after, the Men’s Football 1st Team added a second trophy to the day with a 2–0 victory over the University of the West of England.
Gloucester began the game well, applying early pressure, but it was goalkeeper Callum Morrison who produced the first big moment with an outstanding double save to keep the scores level.
The breakthrough came midway through the first half when James Blackman delivered a free kick that was finished by captain Ben Wheaver to give Gloucestershire the lead. The advantage was doubled soon after, as Shane Pierson found the top corner with an excellent strike from outside the box.
With a two-goal lead at the break, Gloucestershire approached the second half with control and discipline. UWE pushed for a way back into the game, but the Gloucestershire defence stayed organised and managed the game well to see the result through.
It was another impressive performance from a side supported by coach Ivor Gumm, and the victory ensured it was a day to remember for Gloucestershire.
Two finals and two wins made it a hugely successful trip to the BUCS Western Conference Finals, and a proud moment for everyone involved. Both teams represent UoGSU, and their achievements are something the whole Students’ Union community is incredibly proud to celebrate.