LEDBURY suffered a disappointing start to their Midlands 3 West (South) campaign as visitors Manor Park came from behind to seal a 31-21 victory.
Sweltering conditions made it tough going for both sides and it was Manor Park who struck first with flanker Adam Moore scoring.
However, Ledbury found their feet and from a penalty, Jamie Rayfield kicked wide to winger Ryan Brown and he found hooker Dale Brown to score, with George Bennion converting.
Manor Park extended their lead when full-back Callum Bishop drew the Ledbury defence wide and put centre Joe Reynolds in for a fine try under the posts.
The heavier visitors continued to enjoy most of the possession and spent time deep in Ledbury territory before number eight Aaron Willis crashed over for a short range try.
The second half saw both sides toiling hard in the sunshine and despite struggling in the set piece Ledbury's Joel Skyers scored next after a great solo effort.
The heat was beginning to affect the visitors and Matt Hallett broke for the home side to score under the posts after a 40 metre sprint.
Ahead for the first time 21-19, Ledbury relaxed and a loose pass was picked up by Manor Park’s flanker Charlie Wilson to score.
The final blow to Ledbury's hope was delivered by fly-half Dan Joyce who twisted his way over after a prolonged period of heavy mauling on the Ledbury line.
Meanwhile, Ledbury seconds started their Gloucester Merit League campaign with a 71-42 defeat away at Cirencester.
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