Claverdon 29, Alcester 0

ALCESTER’S winning run in Midlands Division Four West (South) came to an end at the weekend when they were well beaten by promotion-chasing Claverdon.

The Kings Coughton men were simply beaten by the better team, who were well marshalled by their excellent number 10.

They were forced to make wholesale changes, with captain Jack Green forced out through injury, while fly half Glynn Smith and centre Jamie Clarke were both missing due to work commitments.

Robbie Parker moved to fly half with Ed Benskin making his first league start for several months. Matt Ashby moved into the centre alongside Meka Pieri, although the Fijian lasted no more than half an hour before an ankle injury forced him off the field.

After the first 30 minutes, Alcester trailed 12-0 but were competitive. But two quick tries in the final 10 minutes of the half hit them hard.

And Claverdon extended their lead just after the restart as they eased to victory.

Alcester host Coventrians next Saturday for a 2.15pm kick-off at Kings Coughton.