Gloucester Rugby scored several noteworthy tries against London Irish on Saturday, but Aaron Hinkley’s was arguably the pick of the bunch and enough to see him win the 1873 Club Outstanding Moment.

Following the game Aaron came into the Abbey Business Lounge alongside team mate Jamal Ford-Robinson, and took part in the post-match Q&A for 1873 Club Members, hosted by former Gloucester back row forward Simon Devereux.

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Aaron Hinkley & Jamal Ford-Robinson (c) Martin Bennett/ Gloucester Rugby

Aaron Hinkley & Jamal Ford-Robinson[/caption]

Aaron was then presented with the award by Devs, who provided the following summary of the game.

“The final score did not reflect the balance of play for large parts of this match, where ultimately experience and physicality told in the final quarter.

“Considering this was the first match of the season, Gloucester’s young side were well structured and patient in the opening quarter, recycling possession well in the face of stern defense.

“It will have been tempting to throw the ball around but Gloucester were mature in their approach and decision making, ensuring they dominated territory and held an early lead. The fact that a lot of the patterns and skill levels looked familiar to a full-strength Gloucester side in the opening quarter was testament to all those on the field.

“Gloucester’s patience and execution in registering their opening try, following close range lineout and scrum positions, was impressive. They remained composed and there was an air of maturity about the build up phases.

“London Irish eventually used their physicality to drive over a lineout to draw level. Their power and experience showed in this department as the game progressed. Gloucester were then turned over at a scrum to concede and failed to chase a restart effectively conceding three tries in six minutes. This undermined their good early work but was a good lesson for the young squad, in how mistakes are punished at the top level.

“A superb solo try from distance by Aaron Hinkley before half time meant the 15-22 score line was more reflective of the play witnessed.

“Gloucester started the second half well and drew level before a lapse in defensive concentration meant they were punished again. Gloucester introduced more youth from the bench going into the final quarter with London Irish bringing on more experience and reaping the benefits.

“Ultimately it was an environment the Gloucester side will have learnt a huge amount from, in front of a big Kingsholm crowd. The coaches will have been pleased with the players’ application and maturity for large parts of this performance.”

Aaron Hinkley wins the 1873 Club Outstanding Moment at the London Irish game

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