HEREFORD RFC started 2018 in fine style by beating Sutton Coldfield 17-10 – their first Midlands 1 West double of the season.

The Wyesiders came from behind to win after registering three tries, to the delight of head coach Sean Lynn.

"I asked the players for honesty and character, especially after the character they showed in the game with Moseley Oak when they were down to 11 players," said Lynn.

"The boys took their chance and grabbed their opportunities.

"Some of these boys will be given their opportunities and if they take them they’ll stay in the squad.

"Credit to Sutton, they were good and played some nice rugby, but the boys showed great character.

"We ground out the win.

"A big mention must go to Guido Suez, who was everywhere on the park.

"It was also good to have Richard Preece back from injury and he brought that little bit of leadership to the forwards, while Tom Ewins also led by example.

"So, all in all, a very good start to 2018 and we are looking forward to Wolverhampton at home next.”

From the kick-off, Hereford looked dangerous and some good running play was spoilt several times by careless handling.

Sutton opened the scoring with an unconverted try and for a period, there were some minor niggles amongst the forwards.

However, Hereford regained control and saw the half out with a brace of tries.

A driving scrum from the pack saw Luke Fisher pick up at the base of the scrum and off-load to Ben Osbourne, who put Perry Pudge in for a try which he converted himself.

As the interval approached, Fisher again picked the ball up from a scrum and fed Matt Hill, who drove over.

The second period started well for the Wyesiders when Lewis Turner picked up a loose ball and ran 60 yards for a well taken individual try.

Sutton showed their character in the final quarter and put the Hereford defence under pressure for periods of play.

They reduced the deficit to seven points with a try, but the Hereford defence denied them any further score.

The Wyesiders had other scoring opportunities, both Ieuan Brown and Fisher made solo runs into Sutton territory, but were closed down before they could score.

Meanwhile, the Hereford Colts team thrashed Luctonians 54-12 in the North Midlands Colts League thanks to tries from Bailey Wiles, Matt Lawrence (2), Ewan Procter, Alex Kalwaite, Freddie Spencer, Will Samuels and Sam Johnson.