Droitwich 34
Stourbridge 12
Midlands Division Three West (North)

DROITWICH rounded off their home league campaign in fine style, seeing off a spirited Stourbridge Lions.

They ran in three tries through Andy Vizor, Nick Godfrey and Ross Coombes. With the blustery wind on their backs in the first period, Droitwich started brightly.

A good line-out catch by Phil Horton saw Jon Andrews take the ball forward to feed Steve Poke, who threw a good pass to young full-back Vizor to inject pace.

His lovely arcing run left the defence on their heels as he touched down under the posts.

Stand in fly-half Jonny Critchlow added the additional points.

More strong running from tight forwards Dean Goddard and Pete Norris saw Droitwich advance up the pitch to give Critchlow two penalty attempts which he calmly slotted away.

Good work from Poke and winger Craig Mortlemans saw Andrews surge forward before Nick Godfrey was on hand to power his way over from close range to give the home side an 18-0 advantage at the break.

With the wind against them in the second period Droitwich knew they would have to modify their game plan to maintain their advantage, although the half got off to the worst possible start when back row forward, Phil Horton was shown a red card, for allegedly throwing a punch.

While Droitwich seemed slow to reorganise, the visitors took the opportunity to reduce the arrears and scored two quick tries.

The game now seemed to be in the melting pot, but Droitwich raised their game with veteran back row forward Nick Godfrey turning in an excellent display.

He was ably supported by youngster Harry Riley, whose line-out work, in the absence of Horton, was simply first class.

With the Droitwich forwards now supplying consistent quality possession the backs were able to make inroads, with Ross Coombes and Mark Strut both running strong, intelligent lines.

The visitors had no option but to infringe, allowing the reliable boot of Critchlow to increase the Spa lead with three further penalties.

As the clock ran down, Droitwich seemed more and more in control of the game as Sean Walker ran strongly, well supported by replacements Andy Manns and Matt Blackmore.

Coombes made a dynamic outside burst to leave the defence in his wake and score under the posts.

Blackmore added the conversion to give Droitwich a handsome and well deserved victory.

Click here for more action shots from the game.