Ledbury Ist XV's losing Midlands Three West (South) run continued when they were edged out by Old Leamingtonians.

LEDBURY RFC 18pts, OLD LEAMINGTONIANS 22pts

Ledbury started the game with an unsettled team and three players carrying injuries.

The first half began with Old Leams trying to better their way up the field but Ledbury's defence stayed firm. Unfortunately Ledbury at times showed a bit too much indiscipline and were 9-0 down after three penalties from Davis.

Ledbury soon got their hands on the ball with veteran Russ Putland, Tom Green and Dan Hunter all looking dangerous. Old Leams then showed indiscipline and Ledbury got back into the game with two penalties from Henry Blandford.

The game was end to end but Ledbury looked very dangerous. The defence was good with Terry Bees making some inspiring hits and skipper Matt Williams and second row partner, the evergreen Al Dixon, both chalking up big tackle counts.

Ledbury's committed performance was rewarded when winger Kieran Hallam scored in the corner after good work from James Hamley, Russ Putland and Darren Lynch. Old Leams responded with a penalty to shave the first half 12-10.

The second half continued much as the first, entertaining the large crowd. Denver Rollings and Si Weston both made good runs deep into the Old Leams half.

Luck didn't go with Ledbury when Tim Hooper got injured, therefore ending any advantage Ledbury had in the scrum or line-out. Old Leams' back conjured up a good move to score in the corner to increase their lead. Ledbury didn't give up and scored again through their pack who drove over the line.

The game continued to ebb and flow and Old Leams' pack pushed over to score and lead by four points with ten minutes to go. Ledbury battled on and their chance came when speedster Kieron Hallam went through only to be caught by the Old Leams second row. The whistle blew for full time and Ledbury lost 22-18.

Ledbury were disappointed with the result but pleased with the performance.

Ledbury have been boosted by news of the return of full back Pete Elkington .

Tomorrow (Saturday) Ledbury have a home friendly against Ludlow.