ALCESTER 17, WOODRUSH 48

WOODRUSH are one win away from securing the Midlands Division Four West (South) title after seeing off their local rivals with a bonus point victory.

The Icknield Street outfit put themselves in the driving season with a derby success.

They are now locked on 72 points with rivals Harbury, although the Woodrush boast a better points differential.

They will be hoping to secured top spot by seeing off fourth-placed Atherstone at home on Saturday, while Harbury entertain Claverdon (both games 3pm).

Woodrush had too much fire-power for an Alcester side who had already suffered relegation after finishing bottom of the table.

The visitors opened the scoring at Kings Coughton when Steve Smart showed a good turn of pace and put Ed Gardiner in under the posts.

Titch Thomas broke through two tackles before feeding Smart who finished sharply under the posts. Coach Jon Ford then finished a flowing move to confirm their control.

Alcester hit back when Ryan Clark touched down.

On the stroke of half-time, Anton Taylor went over to hand Woodrush as 26-7 lead.

Ed Lerna then powered over shortly later but in their efforts to add more points, the green and whites forced their position a little and Clark intercepted, sprinting the length of the pitch to respond once again.

Normal service was soon resumed by Woodrush and Lerna added a second before a trademark tap and go by Thomas added another try.

l Spaces are available on Alcester's seven-a-side tournament, which will be held on Sunday, April 27.

For more details call Andy Flynn on 07923 436184.