Ledbury Rugby Club made the trip to Warwickshire and put in their best performance of the season yet, against promotion-chasing Stratford.

STRATFORD 23PTS, LEDBURY 22PTS

Stratford were going to be formidable opponents having had a great start to the season and it was easy to see why. Within a minute Ledbury had conceded a try following some confusion in defence, allowing the Stratford winger over the line.

Ledbury responded quickly, fought back with a try of their own when the pack drove over the line and allowed Chris Lewins to ground the ball. The game was end to end and played at a frantic pace. Stratford scored a crashing try from their flanker, which spurred Ledbury to take control of the game and this they did for the remaining 20 minutes of the half, with the back line of Russ Putland, Kieram Hallam and Ali Smith constantly testing the Stratford defence.

Ledbury's dominance was rewarded when fly half Rob Collins dived over the line and between the posts, and was duly converted by Barrett Price to take the score line to 12-10.

Ledbury continued to press and strong play from the forwards was rewarded with a second try from Chris Lewins. Stratford scored a penalty on the stroke of half time, taking the score to 17-13 to Ledbury.

Stratford began the second half fervently and after persistent pressure drove over the line to regain the lead at 17-18.

The match was evenly balanced, with both sets of backs looking sharp. The Stratford pack dominated the scrum with the lighter Ledbury pack taking control of the loose ball. Ledbury regained the lead when Will Green powered in to the corner following a 60 yard run leaving the Stratford defence on the floor.

Both sides continued creating chances, with Stratford being prevented from scoring thanks to a great tackle from winger Ollie Kaye. However, Stratford did get their reward when their prop bundled over the line for a try taking the home side to a one point lead. With ten minutes to go, Ledbury threw everything they had at Stratford but they refused to let them. Ledbury had to settle for a series of missed chances, Jamie Williams was prevented from going over the line, Barrett Price hit the post with a penalty and Rob Collins pushed a drop goal wide.

The final scoreline was a gut wrenching 23-22 to Stratford.

Ledbury can be proud of their efforts after this performance; there was some outstanding play from Chris Lewins and promising play from up-and-coming youngsters Jamie Williams and Will Green.

Ledbury are at home tomorrow (Saturday) against Droitwich. Droitwich have had a tough start to their season but will be keen to avenge the 58-20 defeat in last season's fixture. Kick off at Ross Road is 2.30pm and all support is appreciated.