Hereford Stampede fell to a second consecutive defeat, losing 28-12 to the South Wales Warriors in a closely contested match at Ledbury Rugby Football Club, writes Simon Lampitt.
The Stampede were keen to bounce back the SFC 1 West in the BAFA 2026 Mixed Adult Contact Season after suffering a heavy defeat in their season opener against the same opponents last week.
The game began under overcast skies, with both teams struggling to make significant headway in the early exchanges. The punters were busy, with both sides forced to kick the ball away after stalled drives. Hereford managed to secure the first first down of the match, but their progress was halted by a well-organised Warriors defence.
As the first quarter drew to a close, South Wales broke the deadlock, driving into the end zone for a touchdown, followed by a successful extra point, giving them a seven-point lead.
The Stampede’s next possession ended in a punt, as the Warriors' defence continued to stifle their efforts. However, Hereford's defence responded admirably, forcing South Wales into negative yardage and intercepting a pass to the delight of their home supporters. Shortly after, Hereford's runner powered through for a touchdown, though the extra point attempt was unsuccessful, narrowing the gap to six points.
South Wales quickly regained their momentum, scoring again to increase their score to 14 points to six. The Stampede struggled to find their rhythm, allowing South Wales to advance further down the field.
As the third quarter commenced, Hereford intercepted another pass, but their drive stalled, resulting in a missed field goal attempt. Both defences continued to dominate, with neither side able to score throughout the quarter.
In the fourth quarter, the Warriors capitalised on a short punt from Hereford, scoring yet again; with the extra point good, South Wales led 21 points to six. Despite a valiant effort, the Stampede were unable to mount a successful response. A series of turnovers ensued, with Hereford fumbling the ball in promising positions. South Wales took full advantage, scoring another touchdown; with the extra point kick good, the score increased to 28 to six.
With just under two minutes remaining, Hereford attempted a deep pass that appeared to be interfered with, but no foul was called. They eventually managed to score a passing touchdown, though a two-point conversion was nullified before the line of scrimmage, leaving the final score at Hereford 12-28 South Wales.
The Stampede now sit at zero wins and two losses, while the Warriors remain unbeaten at three wins. Hereford's next fixture is at home against the Bournemouth Bobcats on Sunday, May 24, with kick-off at 1pm.
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