Rugby Union
Claverdon prove too strong for Welsh

Rugby Welsh 15 Claverdon 48

Midlands Four West (South)

RUGBY Welsh’s tricky start to 2012 continued on Saturday when falling to defeat against Claverdon.

Once again it was a battling performance from the Alwyn Road side, particularly in the second half, but the opposition were clinical in their general play and particularly with their finishing to claim victory.

The hosts struggled to gain any possession in the opening quarter as they tried to get to grips with Claverdon’s large pack.

Welsh defended manfully but the visitors eventually broke through and three unconverted tries gave them a 15-0 lead.

Eddie Beynon closed the gap with his first try for the club but Claverdon reasserted their dominance with two further converted tries and a penalty to lead 31-5 at the break.

Welsh refused to let their heads drop and dominated most of the territory and possession in the second half.

Veteran Chris Woolmore was excellent at flanker with King performing well in the unaccustomed number eight position.

Jamie Cranham was his usual livewire self and after a period of constant pressure he crashed over for a well taken try.

Whilst Claverdon immediately scored a try themselves, further Welsh pressure saw them camped in the opposition 22 for long periods.

The opposition defended well but an excellent break from Matt Cockman saw him weave his way through the defence for Welsh’s third unconverted try of the contest.

Welsh realised they needed one further effort in order to claim a bonus point but Claverdon had other ideas and they clinically completed their victory with two converted tries in the final five minutes.