Fri 10 Apr 2026, 19:30
his Friday night friendly match gave R the opportunity for a run out ahead of the last two games of the season having not played for a month.
A cagey start saw both packs battle an even game but when R the backs had their chance, attacking lines were found and scoring opportunities arose. Joe Morgan had a lively game, his jinking running style causing havoc in the Five Ways back line. Jack Mertens was equally effective but with a more direct manner.
It was ground gained by Morgan that led to a series of penalty opportunities near the Five Ways line, Stu Brookes with his trademark tap and drive opened the scoring . FW hit back soon after with a forward dominated attack only for Joe M to score himself taking advantage of a Jack M attack.
Again FWays hit straight back with a forward dominant score and with both being converted they took a slender 14-12 lead. But as the half drew on, R pressed home their advantage with Harry Rutter rounded off a fine backs move to score out wide and Sid Allen powered over the line for their fourth score and with two converted by Will Spires they reached the break leading 14-24.
The second half started with a barrage of attacks from the home side which R soaked up, counterattacking when they had the opportunity. Will Spires extended their lead with a score he converted himself before the hosts had a series of penalties awarded which they eventually took advantage of to close to with 10 points.
The game was wrapped up when another crisp line break from Joe M fed Will S who chipped the ball forward and Jack M won the foot race to dive on the bouncing ball to score.
In all, it was a solid sober performance by a Redditch side looking to end a disappointing season on a high note. This Sat they host Stourport with a 3pm ko
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