HEREFORD maintained their unbeaten start to 2015 by beating bottom club Earlsdon 23-17 in Midlands 1 West.

In a game of two halves, the Wyesiders controlled the first period to set up a comfortable 17-0 interval lead.

But Hereford let their opponents into the game after the break and were lucky to hold onto the win.

Bob Stewart's team are four points clear of Worcester Wanderers in second place, with the two sides meeting at Wyeside this Saturday.

Despite the heavy conditions, Hereford persevered with their normal game and kept the ball in hand.

Within minutes, Nat Thomas was forced into touch inches from the Earlsdon goal line.

Some vigorous forward play forced a penalty, which Jock Welch took quickly.

After driving on, another penalty was awarded which Morgan Goodall slotted over to give Hereford an early lead.

More forward play led to Perry Pudge grabbed a try, which Goodall converted.

Goodall then dive over for a try of his own, with the extra points taking Hereford into a comfortable half-time lead.

But Hereford committed too many offences after the break, which allowed Earlsdon to reduce the deficit with a converted try.

An opportunist drop goal further reduced the lead before Goodall slotted over a penalty.

Hereford were forced to concede a couple of penalties, leading to Gus Lowther receiving a yellow card and a penalty try for the hosts.

In the closing stages, some determined Hereford play ensured the win, which was closed off with a third Goodall penalty.

Meanwhile Hereford Colts bowed out of the National colts Cup following a 27-10 loss to Moortown.

Kian Bell and Louis Wilkes were Hereford's try scorers.