Camp Hill's Wyeside victory ends fine run

HEREFORD'S run of seven league and cup wins was halted by a determined Camp Hill performance on a muddy, rain-drenched Wyeside pitch on Saturday, writes Jeremy Finney.

Hereford, secure in the top half of Midlands 1, had an eye on the next day's cup game and drafted several second-teamers into their line-up.

The changed side gave a disjointed display and Camp Hill took full advantage in their battle to avoid relegation.

The Wyesiders were guilty of too many infringements as the Birmingham visitors, who also won at Wyeside last season, went on to victory with a try and three penalties to a single penalty.

Camp Hill won plenty of ball from scrums and lineout and Hereford rarely looked like making much impression in the difficult conditions.

The visitors snatched the lead after 10 minutes following a series of drives at the Hereford line. Recycled ball went out to full-back Don Bentley who put Jermaine Benard away to speed over on the left wing for a try which centre Ian Chetland was unable to convert.

While Camp Hill flanker Adam Sharples was sin-binned, Hereford replied with a 16th-minute penalty from Finbar Heavens. But four minutes later Chetland replied in similar fashion before trying a long-range effort which fell short.

He was back on target in the 39th minute and then Heavens was unlucky with a long kick just before half-time, leaving Here-ford trailing 11-3.

The second half was a battle of attrition in the mud and Hereford's best chance came from a break following a lineout but skipper Jason Lewis was held up just short of the line.

Chetland converted another penalty in the 68th minute, which left Hereford with a lot to do to get back in the game.

But their efforts were to no avail and Camp Hill were able to celebrate a victory which boosted their chances of staying in Midlands 1.