In Gloucester’s defeat of Edinburgh in the European Challenge Cup final, the flying winger for the Cherry & Whites almost scored a sensational try midway through the first half. His effort was halted by a fantastic chase and ankle-tap, the second of which in the game.
With three international tries and 13 caps to his name, Jonny May has become recognised by defences as a world class finisher who can score from almost anywhere on the pitch.
May’s incredible try against New Zealand in 2014, in which he started from the halfway line before ghosting around Kiwi centre Conrad Smith, and fullback Israel Dagg before touching down, was so impressive it received a nomination for the IRPA Try of the Year.
On this occasion, it was an Edinburgh player fumbling the ball just outside the Gloucester 22 that gifted May his opportunity to prove just how lethal he can be.
Going from standing to top gear in a matter of seconds, the England flyer came within inches of scoring a memorable try, stopped only by the desperate tap-tackle of South African back rower, Cornell du Preez – and his covering efforts to catch May must be commended.
The Gloucester star was dropped from the England setup during this year’s RBS Six Nations, replaced by Exeter youngster, Jack Nowell. May will hope that his performances for the new European Challenge Cup champions will be enough to warrant selection for the World Cup.
Earlier in the match Du Preez, who had just returned from a horrific ankle injury, also pulled off an impressive tap tackle on Gloucester’s fullback, Charlie Sharples, who had dangerously broken the Edinburgh defence. That clip can be seen on page two of this post.
View Du Preez’s tap tackle on Charlie Sharples
Cornell du Preez’s outstanding ankle tap on dangerous flyer Charlie Sharples
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