ALCESTER pulled off a hard fought 12-5 triumph over Harbury to go third in Midlands Division Four West South.

The result was all the more creditable as Alcester were missing their entire line-out unit from the previous week's win over Coventry Welsh.

It was an area where Alcester struggled throughout but they still managed to dominate proceedings sufficiently that they should have been further than 12-0 ahead by half time against a Harbury side who had been relegated last season.

Alcester took the lead with an excellent try from skipper Jack Green following a period of high tempo pressure which resulted with the ball being moved from one side of the pitch to the other before an opening was created, Luke Spencer adding the conversion.

Further chances to score went begging before Alcester created an overlap for left wing Lewis Walker to breach Harbury's defence and put them 12-0 up at the interval.

Harbury began to test Alcester's defence and only an outstanding tackle from full back Scott Carmichael kept the hosts at bay.

Harbury stepped up the pace and Alcester found themselves under pressure especially when they went down to 14 men after prop Sam Lear was sent to the sin bin after failing to retreat at a penalty.

Alcester survived this period of play but eventually conceded a try in the corner as Harbury made the most of their domination of possession.

Tom Goddard took top billing for Alcester after the 18-year-old winger underlined his ability in attack and defence.

Alcester entertain Coventry club Keresley this Saturday with kick-off at the earlier time of 2.15pm.