NORTH East Worcestershire Ravens bounced back from the disappointment of their second league game in a row being postponed to play Sherwood Wolf Hunt A in a friendly in Nottinghamshire.

Ravens made the trip to Mansfield and despite several work related absences handed a first start of the season to Karl Wesley.

Despite only having 11 players, which included Richard Whitehouse and Jake Griffin Parry, the visitors borrowed three of the hosts to ensure the game would go ahead.

The game got off to a fierce start but Ravens weathered the early pressure and opened the scoring with a try from Wesley, converted by David Wimbury.

Sherwood quickly struck back with a try in the corner but were unable to convert.

Wesley broke the Sherwood line again for his second try of the game, going in close to the sticks to give Wimbury an easy conversion.

Ravens quickly got the measure of their opponents and started playing wide of the ruck.

This tactic created space and Josh Dewston capitalised twice in a 10 minute spell where Ravens dominated possession of the ball.

With a comfortable lead, Ravens got over ambitious and allowed the hosts to score against the run of play.

Whitehouse soon required control for the Ravens with an outstanding weaving run ending in his first try of the game.

At half-time, Ravens committed to completing their sets and making Sherwood work for the ball.

This plan was the key to shutting out the second half. Ravens upped their defence, forced the error from their opposition and took advantage of their opportunities.

Tries came from Wesley, Whitehouse and Wimbury, which were all converted.

Sherwood got a consolation try from an interception of a mistimed Ravens pass and an outstanding 80 metre sprint from the Sherwood winger.

The game was put to bed fittingly with Wesley scoring his fourth try.

Coaching team Jason Spafford and Rich Whitehouse were delighted with the attitude of the players and execution of the game plan.

“We think this is the turning point of the season and look forward to our next trip to Sherwood next Saturday to play against the first team,” said Spafford.