ALCESTER find themselves hovering just above the Midlands Three South West drop zone following a 33-3 defeat to top of the table Old Leamingtonians.

Visiting Leams soon underlined why they are in top spot as both sides demonstrated some high quality rugby throughout the game.

Alcester immediately found themselves under pressure from Leamington's powerful pack and were forced to defend.

Despite this early pressure, Alcester took the lead from a Max Biltcliffe penalty.

But this proved to be the only points for Alcester as Leams began to execute their well rehearsed moves and scored two similar converted tries wide out to make the half time score 14-3 in their favour.

Alcester struggled to get some of their set plays going, losing several of their own line-outs while Leams were guilty of some simple handling errors which could have seen them extend their lead.

However Leams were quick to capitalise on Alcester's weaknesses and spotted gaps in the home defence to run in three second half tries.

With three teams being relegated this season Alcester will be anxious for a return to winning ways when they visit next to bottom Old Yardleians this Saturday.

In contrast, following a poor start to the season, things are picking up for Alcester's Second XV who beat their Claverdon counterparts 41-17 to record a convincing win.

That was after Claverdon had led 12-10 at half time.

Antony Cauvin scored tries in either half while Sean Sudworth kicked a conversion and penalty.

Veteran Scott Carmichael scored a second try for Alcester early in the second half to put them ahead before Cauvin struck with his second touchdown.

Luke Spencer took over the kicking duties by adding the extra points before scoring two tries himself within the space of as many minutes.

Dave Ashby then added a further try to ensure an emphatic victory.

Alcester Seconds host Old Yardleians 2's this Saturday.