Atherstone 17, Kings Norton 22

KINGS Norton made it back-to-back wins for the first time this season in the Midlands Division Four West (South) by edging out Atherstone in a tight game.

Twelve months ago, Norton had lost by two points, but they bounced back with a victory.

After 10 minutes, Atherstone’s lively back row created the easiest of scores by driving over for a converted try.

Kings finally settled and forced their way into the match by kicking long at every opportunity with their stronger forwards holding the advantage in the tight play.

In the 35th minute, full back James Pritchard showed his versatility when he seized upon a loose ball five metres out to cross in the corner for an unconverted try.

A penalty ensured Norton went into half-time trailing by five points.

During half-time, captain Shane Rees called for greater efforts and Kings responded three minutes into the second half.

An unstoppable run by Chris Hands saw the back row crash over under the posts, with Rees slotting the extras to hand Kings a narrow lead.

Atherstone missed a simple penalty in front of the posts, but following this re-took the lead after a converted try close to the posts.

This proved to be their final score as Kings came back strongly in response.

After a lengthy spell of powerful rugby, the visitors finally broke Atherstone’s hearts when centre Pete Crompton touched down under the posts, with Rees adding the extras.

Kings maintained the pressure and a penalty was put away by Rees.

Atherstone tried to respond, but replacement winger Arturo Chauhan produced a try-saving tackle.

Kings held out and this proved to be the final score in another well-matched and entertaining game.

This away victory moves Kings into a mid-table position.

They take on Bishop’s Castle at home in the second round of the Midlands Junior Vase.

Meanwhile, Redditch lost 33-10 to Upton-upon-Severn.

The Kingfishers host Alcester in their next game on Saturday, December 5.