ALCESTER struggled for replacements in the back division this week and consequently suffered a 27-8 reverse at high-flying Herefordshire side Ledbury in Midlands 3 South West.

Injuries and unavailability meant Alcester only had forward replacements which severely limited their options.

But that didn't stop Alcester from taking the lead through a Max Biltcliffe penalty.

Ledbury levelled with a penalty of their own but once their winger crossed for a well taken try, Ledbury never looked back and led 20-3 at the break.

Alcester were much more competitive after the break and spurred on by a dominant pack, saw Matt Johnson secure a try after getting on the back of a forward drive which was marched over Ledbury's try line.

Alcester's Tommy Wright and Lewis Walker were sent to the sin bin for technical offences while Ledbury also had a player yellow carded.

Although Alcester laid siege to Ledbury's line in the closing stages, they couldn't score while Ledbury latched onto a late breakaway to seal victory.

Alcester are back in league action this Saturday when they host Nuneaton side Manor Park at Kings Coughton (2.15pm kick off).

The Second XV also struggled for players and could only field 14 in their 43-15 defeat to Coventrians.

No.8 Matt Jupp snapped up a couple of tries for Alcester while flanker Alec Aucott added another.

The Seconds travel to Manor Park this Saturday.