A DEPLETED Ledbury pushed a strong Old Yardleians side all the way as the Ross Road side put in their best performance for many weeks.

EDBURY 20PTS, OLD YARDLEIANS 26PTS

Ledbury played down the slope and were quickly 6-0 down after two penalties from the visiting full back.

Ledbury fought back and great work from forwards Bill Sparrey, Steve Green and Dave Balch meant Ledbury had a solid scrum despite the size of the Old Yardleians front row. Ledbury pressed hard and even when they were down to 14 men, due to the sin-binning of Dave Balch for a professional foul, remained in control.

A great break by Kieram Hallam made a chance for Olly Kaye and the in-form winger took another chance with another clinical finish. Old Yardleians quickly responded with a try of their own to regain the lead.

Ledbury fought back, Rob Collins spurred the pack on as he returned to his sniping best and caused Old Yardleians all sorts of problems.

On the whistle for half-time, Pete Elkington fed Sam Scholefield, who made a break to put in James White for his first of the season. At the break Ledbury trailed 17-18.

The second half was going to be tough but Ledbury came out flying, Chris Lewins and Dave Balch both making several crunching tackles and Bill Sparrey and Gareth Rowlands making hard yards. Ledbury converted a penalty before Old Yardleians scored in the corner through their winger, to lead 20-23. Old Yardleians repelled everything Ledbury had as they secured a hard-fought victory with a late drop goal.

Ledbury can be proud of their performance. With players returning and injuries healing, and with four new additions to the first XV, Ledbury can look forward to the final third of the season.

Tomorrow (Saturday) Ledbury look to avenge an 80-5 defeat when they host table-toppers Barkers Butts at Ross Road. Kick-off 2.30pm. All support is very welcome.