A STRONG Ledbury side turned out to defeat a big Drybrook side in a close-fought contest.

Ledbury started well and with a new pack dominating the line-outs and scrummages they applied pressure through clever kicking to establish themselves on the Drybrook line.

LEDBURY II 22pts, DRYBROOK III 8pts

Poor handling and uncharacteristic dropped balls cost Ledbury points on several occasions, however they redeemed themselves with some strong defence.

As the first half closed Ledbury had grown in confidence and cohesion but the game was still delicately poised at 10-8.

The second period was marked by continuing Ledbury dominance and midway through the half Vince Bell came on in the scrum in place of skipper Neil Blandford and Ed Blandford made way for centre Rich Harper.

Ledbury continued to exercise forward dominance as the two centres punched holes in the Drybrook defence. Vince Bell crossed the line from close quarters to ease a gap between the sides but the final say was left to Karl Lancett. The full back picked up the ball on the halfway line and weaved his way through the Drybrook defence to score in the corner for his first senior try for the club.

Tomorrow (Saturday) Ledbury Seconds complete their unofficial 'Merit Table' programme with a home game to Droitwich II. Ledbury are presently unbeaten and all support will be welcome. Kick-off 3pm.