Luctonians 21 pts Chester 20

A MISSED last-minute penalty by Chester's Luke Gray allowed Luctonians the win which all-but ensures their place in National Two North for next season.

The north Herefordshire side have now won three games on the trot to move back into the top eight for the first time this year.

Fifth-placed Chester won the first game between the sides this season 32-10 in convincing fashion and shared the honours in the opening exchanges.

After 30 minutes, two penalties by Gray had been matched by two from Tom Jones for the home side but Luctonians edged ahead when Jimmy Norris sent Drew Cheshire away to score under the posts.

Jones' kick was successful but parity was restored within three minutes when Gray added the conversion to a Peter Rees score.

After an even start to the second half, Jones kicked the home side into the lead again before Alex James extended the advantage still further, intercepting and running half the length of the field for a try which Jones improved.

Chester were, however, in no mood to cede the victory and Gavin Woods' score, which was again converted by Gray, reduced the Mortimer Park club's lead to a single point.

The Luctonians defence had to work hard to prevent any further scores but it looked as though their excellent efforts had been in vain when Gray lined up the late penalty.

But the Chester man was unable to convert and Luctonians could celebrate a fine victory.