Claverdon 7 Alcester 28
Midlands Four West (South)
THEIR best away performance of the season gave Alcester a deserved victory at neighbours Claverdon on Saturday and, in doing so, extended their lead at the top of the table with this 11th successive league win.
Two in-form teams battled it out in difficult and sticky conditions underfoot but, from start to finish, Alcester were the better side and deserved the win which gives them an eight-point advantage over second placed Bromyard, who have a game in hand.
In recent games it has been the Alcester backs who have received the plaudits but this time it was the forwards who took most credit as they were outstanding in the scrummage and powerful around the park.
Lock Louis Smith was named man of match after a performance from the big man that showed off his handling skills as much as his strength.
Prop Jack Horton also put in a superb performance, while back-rowers George Green, Ben Hope and Phil Birks won the battle for the ball time and time again.
Following a frenetic start to the game it was scoreless until Tom Goddard popped up on his opposite wing to create the overlap that broke the Claverdon defence.
Scrum half Robbie Parker, who celebrated his 40th birthday last week, poached a second try to put his team 10-0 up at half time.
In the second half Alcester grew stronger and dominated. Skipper Jack Green forced his way over for a third try for his team before Claverdon rallied with a try of their own.
However, Alcester took complete control of the final quarter as fly half Max Biltcliffe slotted over two penalties in quick succession before running in and converting the bonus point try for his team to seal a comfortable victory.
Over the last few years, coming away with any sort of result from Ossetts Hole Lane has proven difficult for Alcester, so this victory which secured a league double over their neighbours is a major boost to their title credentials.
However, Alcester expect plenty more tests to come as unsurprisingly being top of the league makes the team something of a target.
Alcester now turn their attentions to the visit of Coventrians on Saturday (2.15pm).
