In pictures: Bridgnorth lose at Twickenham despite brave fight back
Bridgnorth Rugby Club's proud season-long unbeaten run was ended by a superb Maidstone side in the RFU Intermediate Cup final today.
Both sides had gone into the game as undefeated league champions but the Kent-based side proved to be worthy winners, triumphing 31-18.
The All Blacks defences were breached inside two minutes when Olly Newton crossed the line with Ben Pitkin adding the conversion.
Pitkin added a penalty on 11 minutes and Alex Eastwood then capped as fine attacking move to claim his side's second try on 22 minutes.
Pitkin again added the conversion and Josh Pankhurst then produced a storming 30 meter run to add a third, also converted, just before the 30 minute mark.
The game was in danger of becoming a rout but Will Biddell gave Bridgnorth hope with two well-struck penalties before half time.
Bridgnorth made a spirited start to the second half but Eddie Cranston pounced to cap a clinical attack by Maidstone on 50 minutes, with Pitkin's boot again adding the extras.
But after Calum Madden went close for Bridgnorth, skipper Dan Griffiths finished a superb catch and drive to give his side a richly deserved try with 11 minutes remaining.
Biddell sliced the conversion wide but then made amends with an excellent try of his own, which he duly converted, four minutes later.
In the end it proved too little too late to avoid a rare defeat for the All Blacks but they could leave the pitch with their heads held high after a very brave second half response.
