Ledbury suffered their second Midlands Three West (South) loss of the season with a disappointing performance against a strong Stratford side.

STRATFORD 46PTS, LEDBURY 15PTS

The first 20 minutes were all Stratford with Ledbury forced into desperate defence. The defence held firm for long periods but the skilful Stratford backs created three tries as reward for their pressure.

Ledbury fought back through a Barrett Price penalty and then began to play. Kester Wilkinson, Al Dixon and Russ Putland in particular, put in the hard yards as Ledbury tried to get in the game.

With five minutes to go Stratford scored through their fly half, who sliced his way through the mid-field to make it 26-3. On the stroke of half time the Stratford flanker scored to finish the game off.

In the second half Ledbury kept fighting and when the Stratford number eight scored Ledbury could have been looking at a cricket score.

Eventually with 15 minutes to go Kester Wilkinson scored for Ledbury with a powerful drive. Ledbury kept battling and full back Pete Elkington put Russ Putland in for a great score from 70 yards out. The game finished 46-15.

It was a disappointing defeat but some plus points came about. Kester Wilkinson, Denver Rollins and Will Delamore had good games and slowly more structure is coming through.

Tomorrow (Saturday) Ledbury entertain Nuneaton OE's, who are from the division above Ledbury, in the first round of the Intermediate Powergen Cup. Kick off 3pm, all support would be appreciated.