Rugby Union
Woodrush climb up to third

Woodrush 30 Ledbury 10

THE scoreline suggests an easy victory for Woodrush but at half time this Midlands Three West (South) game could have gone either way.

Injuries to lock Luke Russell, winger Ed Lerna and centre Andy McGrann meant Woodrush were forced to shuffle the pack and when scrum half Toby Smith was forced to withdraw just before kick-off the signs were ominous.

But Woodrush built up a 10-0 lead through Steve Smart who scored a penalty, then broke free 10 metres out to score under the posts, adding the conversion.

Ledbury clawed their way back into the match with a penalty themselves and a try on the stroke of half time following a line-out then a rolling maul which they converted.

By then, Woodrush had lost the influencial Smart with bruised ribs and were forced to make more changes.

Ledbury were now in command and appeared to have the advantage but Woodrush somehow found an inner strength in the second half and they completely dominated this period.

First centre James Evans scored but stand-in kicker Josh Tomlinson missed the conversion.

Elusive winger Lucas Hooper was released and he broke through several tackle attempts to score under the posts. Tomlinson landed the conversion and a further penalty.

On the stroke of full time, Hooper again broke free on the wing and rounded his man to score in the corner which earnt the home side a vital bonus point which lifts them up to third in the table.

Woodrush visit Pershore this Saturday.

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