Earlsdon 15
Droitwich RFC 3

DROITWICH produced a disjointed and lacklustre display at Coventry-based Earlsdon in Midlands Division Three West (South) on Saturday.

In superb conditions, the Spa side never threatened to score, let alone win the game and seemed to lack any real structure or game plan.

The opening exchanges were messy with both sides resorting to aimless kicking, as it appeared the kick and chase would be the major weapon on show.

The home side took the lead with a well-taken drop goal, before extending it with a penalty.

A fine run from Steve Poke saw Droitwich gain ground, while Ross Coombes went on a similar run.

But on both occasions Droitwich were unable to take advantage.

The second-half failed to reach the mediocre heights of the first period.

Droitwich became more and more disjointed and fell further behind to another penalty.

A good run by young winger Jack Pomroy saw Droitwich make a rare visit to the Earlsdon ’22.

A penalty was awarded and Matt Blackmore reduced the arrears.

This would, however, prove to be the end of Droitwich’s adventure as a series of penalties saw the Spa side back in their own half, allowing the reliable home kicker the chance to put the game beyond doubt with two further penalties.

A late rally saw Nick Godfrey and James Protherough make ground, but nothing was to come of it.

The final whistle ended a hugely disappointing afternoon for Dan Protherough’s men, who know that if they are to have any success whatsoever this season, they need to raise their game considerably.

This sentiment was echoed by Blackmore after the game.

He said: “We never looked in the hunt today, but we will put this behind us and go forward from here.

“We are all desperately disappointed and determined not to let ourselves down this badly again.”