TRY-SCORER Ben Atkins admitted he has never enjoyed rugby more than he is now after playing a key role in Rams’ 24-10 National One success against Cinderford.

The livewire open-side flanker took his tally to six in 10 games – one more than his brother Jacob managed during a loan spell in 2015/16 – and produced an all-action display which helped his side get back to winning ways after three consecutive defeats.

In an attritional battle, Ed Hoadley opened the scoring with Fraser Honey adding the extras, a Joe Winfield penalty making it 7-3 at the break.

Atkins scored early in the second half, Honey again on target, before Charlie Robson’s stunning individual try made it 19-3.

However, the visitors hit back with Tom Knight touching down for a converted score, only for Stevie Bryant’s last-play score securing a bonus-point which nudged Rams back to the top of the table.

Speaking to BBC Radio Berkshire post-match, Ben said: “Cinderford are a very, very physical side who play with a distinct style and they always stick to their guns – on a heavy pitch it was always going to be tough, but the way the lads stuck with it was great and to get the bonus-point with the last play of the game was a massive testament to not only the starting 15 but the whole squad.

“The depth of the squad is impressive – we had new lads coming in and I thought Finn Matthews on debut was unbelievable – and hopefully we’re building something and have some momentum heading into next week.”

Atkins’ score three minutes into the second period was key, the ex-Forest School student making a brilliant break in midfield before barging over from close range a few phases later.

And he continued: “I started the season well and got a few tries but I’ve been through a bit of a dry spell so I was pleased to get another – we worked hard during the week on first-phase ball and Fraser (Honey) and some of the other boys deserve a lot more credit than me for it.”

Having joined the club in the summer following the sad demise of London Irish, Ben has slotted in seamlessly and revealed: “The way it ended was a very challenging time, but it gave me a chance to reflect and rugby’s such a physical game where you’ll always have such dark moments as a group.

“I knew I couldn’t commit to a team I didn’t have a real passion for and being a local lad, my brother having played here, (it was just right).

“The way the team is part of the community, the way the boys all buy into it, I’ve never been happier playing rugby than I have the past few months and it really is special.

“I don’t think I’ve ever enjoyed my rugby more than I am now, it’s been phenomenal, and there’s a brotherhood and camaraderie which you can’t fake. It’s a pleasure to be a part of the group.”