HEREFORD are still clinging on to second place in Midlands 1 West despite losing their first home game of the season against nearest challengers Worcester Wanderers.

Bob Stewart’s team are now just one point ahead of Worcester in the race to secure the one play-off place available after gaining a losing bonus point.

Perry Pudge scored a try for Hereford after only five minutes, which Morgan Goodall was unable to convert. Worcester had chances to open their account, but failed with two penalty attempts before a kick from Goodall eluded the defence for Matt Milsom to pounce in the corner.

Goodall successfully converted this time to put Hereford 12-0 up.

A handling error though led to the powerful Worcester pack to push over near the posts for a converted try. Goodall then kicked a penalty, but a Hereford offence at the breakdown allowed the visitors to reduce the deficit.

The Wyesiders could have increased their lead after the break, but Goodall’s penalty went wide of the posts before a series of rolling mauls led to Worcester to grab a try that was converted. Penalties were then exchanged before Hereford edged back in front with five minutes to go thanks to a Milsom penalty.

But as time ran out, a Hereford offence gave the away side the opportunity to regain the lead which they did not relinquish.

Hereford host Kenilworth this Saturday.