INJURIES to two props led to Hereford suffering a first defeat of the season as Dudley Kingswinford took advantage and a 22-8 victory.

The Wyesiders should have taken an early lead, but were stripped of the ball after crossing the DK goal-line.

Defences were on top throughout and it seemed that the first half would remain scoreless, until the hosts forced a push-over from a scrum to earn a 7-0 lead at the break.

The Wyesiders looked to respond and Freddie Spencer opened Hereford’s account with a penalty goal.

Their continued pressure eventually resulted in Tom Starkey to score in the corner.

Hereford had lost prop, Peter Barry before half-time and then lost another prop, Jed Goodrum with over 20 minutes to go.

This forced uncontested scrums and in accordance with the laws Hereford were not allowed to replace the second injured prop.

That was the final straw as Dudley ran over two tries to seal the win.

"I'm proud of all 18 players, I can't fault their performance," said head coach Sean Lynn.

"Before the game, I asked for a warrior effort and that was what they gave me. They were dogged in both defence and attack and earned a complement from the opposition coach as the best side they played this season.

"I am gutted that we got nothing from the game, the boys deserved more. We were well in the game until injuries forced the uncontested scrums.

"It was good to see Freddie Spencer back, he kicked well from hand in attack and defence. Next week we face Worcester at Wyeside and I am confident of another excellent display from the squad.”