Chinnor Stun Coventry with Dazzling Second-Half Comeback

Kingsey Road – Saturday 18 October 2025

Kingsey Road erupted on Saturday as Chinnor RFC overturned a 19–0 deficit to defeat Coventry 47–26 — their most emphatic Championship performance to date and a moment that signalled genuine intent.

Chinnor endured a torrid opening quarter as Coventry raced to a 19–0 lead through tries from Morgan Strong, Ewan Baker, and David Opoku-Fordjour, punishing defensive lapses and controlling territory with clinical precision. The visitors looked sharp and composed, while the home side searched for rhythm.

But Chinnor’s response was immediate — resilient, determined, and full of attacking ambition. Scrum-half Luke Carterignited the comeback, darting through from close range to put his side on the board. Soon after, slick handling across the backline created space for the full-back to touch down in the corner. As the home crowd found its voice, Chinnor went into the break trailing just 14–19, momentum swinging firmly their way.

The second half belonged entirely to Chinnor. The pack began to dominate collisions, setting the platform for Robin Hardwick to crash over and give the hosts their first lead of the afternoon. With Grant Hughes dictating play from fly-half, Chinnor’s attack grew increasingly fluid — a deft kick finding Connor Slevin for a superb finish, before replacement hooker Alun Walker powered over from a rolling maul to extend the advantage to 33–19.

Coventry, visibly rattled, struggled to regain control as Chinnor’s tempo and accuracy continued to rise. Jamie Carradded another try to put the result beyond doubt, though the visitors managed a late consolation through Suva Ma’asi. Fittingly, it was Carter who had the final say, slicing through the defence and combining with Will Cave for the closing try that sealed a memorable 47–26 victory.

Nick Easter praised his side’s composure and intensity:

“We asked the boys to stay patient and trust our systems. The second half showed what this group is capable of — it was disciplined, ruthless rugby.”

The full-time whistle was met with a roar that echoed across Kingsey Road. This was not merely a comeback — it was proof of growth and belief. Against one of the Championship’s most seasoned sides, Chinnor combined power, precision, and patience to turn a 19-point deficit into a 21-point triumph. If this display is any indication, their Championship journey is only just beginning.