Redditch RFC

  Although last week's game against Five Ways Old Edwardians was played as a friendly Redditch were awarded the fixture in the week which put them third in the league level with this week's opponents Greyhound from Hereford. Due to a clash of colours Redditch played in their black and white hoops and due to injuries and non availability there were some unfamiliar elements to the side all round.

From the very start Redditch played their usual high tempo forward driving game, ground being gained and ball retained as they overpowered the visitors up front. Unlucky not to have won penalties for the scrum dominance they changed tack a little and when a scrum close the try line presented itself, no8 Stuart Brookes picked and drove to the line to score virtually unhindered.

It was not the most coherent of games, a little scrappy at times with both sides making errors but it was R who capitalised on the mistakes best maintaining possession in the Greyhound half  and quickly snuffing out any attacks when they needed to. Fullback Owen Binns continued his golden streak of try scoring  by claiming another one cutting back inside from a passing movement in the backs, neither try was converted.

At 10-0 at half time Greyhound were still in the game though rarely posed a dangerous threat, Redditch's scratch defense was doing its job and keeping them out. Fly half Aaron Atkinson kept his backs active with centres Matt Allen and Phil Lane making ground allowing Cal Razzak and Leo Fanthome on the wings to ask questions of their opposite numbers. The backrow of Brooks with Stu Hope and ever active Mitchel Ferris snuffed out many moves before they became dangerous

But it was the pack that made the biggest difference, constantly pushing their opponents back at the set piece they were also stronger in the lose which was demonstrated when Jack Bacciocchi charged through for the third try, converted by James Mills.

Skipper Matt Allen rounded off the scoring when he burst through a tiring defence and grounded for the bonus point try.

Mitchel Ferris was given Player of the match award as Redditch strengthened their third place in the league and travel to Keresley next Saturday.

Captain Matt Allen complets the scoring despite the attentions of a tiring Greyhound defence.