In another entertaining match at “Moorefields”, hosts, Leamington, put in a solid performance against Alcester and were unlucky to lose out, 27 points to 33, although they did secure two valuable bonus points.

The visitors started the match in positive mode and took the lead on six minutes of play with a converted score. Leamington gave an immediate response with a promising run from winger, Ethan Roberts. Then full back, Harry Stanton, made good ground with a darting run before his team got on the scoresheet with a well worked try, following a lineout on the nearside flank, in the Alcester 22 metre zone. Prop, Sam Richards made the first inroad, before John Brear took over and forced his way through for an unconverted try.

The score certainly boosted Leamington’s spirits and they followed this up with some smart attacking play, which included a direct run from Freddie Spencer. However, disappointingly, Leamington lost possession, whilst in a good position, and Alcester snapped up the opportunity to score a try on the break.

The visitors certainly had plenty of bulk in the Pack, however, the lighter Leamington forwards were performing superbly, particularly in the scrum, with Props, Dunbavin and Sam Richards and Hooker, Lachlan McKenzie solid throughout. The alert Leamington forwards were about to shine further, with some quick thinking at an Alcester lineout. The hosts had kicked themselves into a good position, although the lineout ball throw-in belonged to Alcester. The visitors, however, failed to secure possession and when the ball fell in open play, Gareth Shuttleworth was on it in a flash and over the try line, before the Alcester defence could react.

Half Time: 10 – 12

A poor start to the second period, and very unlike Leamington, saw them lose two, quick converted scores within the first ten minutes of play. They recovered from this set-back with a delightful converted score, involving both forwards and backs. The initial incursion was made by the Pack, who worked hard to force play deep into the Alcester red zone. When the ball was moved out, centre, Freddie Spencer, was on hand to produce a magical side-step, before racing through for a well-engineered try. James Dunne, making a very welcome return to the Leamington lineup, coolly slotted over the conversion.

Alcester replied with another converted score, confirming their resilience under pressure, before Leamington hit back once again, to set up a tense finish.

The Leamington Pack were at the forefront again, with John Brear setting the ball up for Shuttleworth to race in for a bonus point try. Dunne added the conversion.

Further pressure from Leamington ensued, however, with time no longer on their side, they took advantage of a penalty in front of the posts to use the boot of Dunne to take a losing bonus point, before the Referee called time.

Full Time: 27 - 33

Words by Warner
Pictures by Pinfold