HEREFORD are still unbeaten at home following a narrow victory over Barkers Butts in Midlands 1 West.

Despite the two teams being at opposite ends of the table, it was a close run game with the visitors almost ending the Wyesider's impressive home form when they were handed a penalty in the final minute. But the kick fell short of the posts allowing Hereford to cling on to another vital win.

Hereford went ahead through Matt Milsom after he dived over the line in the corner.

Barkers enjoyed a good share of possession throughout the first half but failed to pose a serious threat to the Hereford defence.

But they drew level before the break following a Hereford error that allowed them to drive over for an unconverted try.

Early in the second period the Hereford pack managed to force a penalty which Morgan Goodall duly converted.

The home team continued to press but failed to add more points, seeing a number of chances go begging.

Despite trailing, the visitors grew in confidence and some forward pressure of their own led to their second unconverted try, giving them a lead for the first time in the game.

Their narrow advantage didn't last long, with another Goodall penalty restoring Hereford’s slender advantage.

Barkers then had a chance to take four points when Hereford were penalised for crossing on half way, but the kick fell short.

It was also good news for the Colts, who progressed to the semi-finals of the North Midlands Colts Cup with a 13-17 win over a strong Bromsgrove side.

Elsewhere, Bromyard went down 15-6 to Bishop's Castle in Midlands 4 West (North).