HEREFORD'S usually sound defensive plan came unstuck against a strong Stratford-upon-Avon side in Midlands 1 West.

The hosts had a well drilled pack and a competent set of backs, who executed the simple things well.

But they they were gifted their six tries by Hereford.

The first half saw Stratford claim three converted tries and kick over two penalties, while the Wyesiders only had two Morgan Goodall penalties to show for their efforts.

Hereford reorganised after the break and saw Fran Jennings score a try.

But that signalled the end of the Wyesiders revival and Stratford added three more tries.

James Stubbs, Will Skinner, James Gannon, Luke Fisher and Olie Hutcheson all made their debuts for Hereford.

“The Hereford defence was unusually fragile against strong and physical opponents," said Hereford coach Luke Fisher.

"There is much to be done in training, but there were a number of plus points to take from the game.

"The scrums were stable and after regrouping at half time we put together some good phases and might have scored more than the solitary try.”

Bromyard beat Church Stretton 25-0 in the North Midlands Vase thanks to tries from Rupert Jones, Tom Hulburd, Jamie Gibbons, John Pudge and Jarrod Kidston, while Ledbury overcame Evesham in the Shield.

Both clubs start their league campaigns with trips this Saturday to Stoke Old Boys and Rugby St Andrews respectively.

Greyhound, whose ladies start their National Midlands Challenge 2 South season with an away match at Witney this Sunday, are away to Market Drayton.

The ladies beat Dursley 55-0 last weekend, with Charlotte Matravers getting player of the match.