WOODRUSH 48, CHELTENHAM NORTH 12

WOODRUSH recorded a third straight win in the Midlands Division Three West (South).

It had been the first time Rush had played Cheltenham since defeat to them two years ago had sealed their relegation to Division Four.

But the hosts started quickly and some rapid recycling in the centres saw Ed Lerna cross after three minutes wide on the left.

Steve Smart then carved through a ragged defensive line and added the extras himself to further extend the lead after 10 minutes.

North fought their way back into the game, preventing the home side from registering again, until coach Jon Ford crashed over with 38 minutes on the clock.

The visitors rapidly responded however, opening their account on the stroke of half-time with a well-worked move.

Woodrush, who were leading 17-5, rallied and increased their intensity, dominating the second half and scoring at regular intervals.

Titch Thomas, ever busy at scrum half went over just after the interval and Matt Playford followed suit shortly after.

Cheltenham rallied but saw several chances to score wasted.

The home side took advantage, with Anton Taylor being the next to join the scoring party and Lerna completing his brace five minutes later.

John Board added the eighth and final try for the home team on 71 minutes to complete a very satisfying afternoon for the home team.

They go to Ledbury in the cup on Saturday (3pm ko).