Ledbury once again hit by players suspended and injuries started this Express and Star Premier Division fixture very brightly with Ian Stewart and Stuart Hall going close early on.

SMETHWICK 2, LEDBURY TOWN 3

Town eventually took the lead when a good run and fine cross by Chris Powell was met by leading goalscorer Robbie Colwell, who headed in from close range.

Ledbury then increased their lead when Colwell crossed low for Ian Stewart to side foot beyond the goalkeeper into the net.

Smethwick hit back as Ledbury made a few defensive errors and they scored two identical goals by the same player, both headers from corners, to level the scores at half-time.

Ledbury started the second half with some purpose but poor finishing and bad luck seemed to be taking them towards a draw.

However, Stuart Hall chased what looked like a lost cause towards the Smethwick goalkeeper who then proceeded to panic, resulting in him kicking the ball against the oncoming Ledbury player who duly placed the ball back into the empty net for the winning goal and three more points.

Ledbury Town manager Paul Wilband now sees his side consolidating a good top half position and can take heart that with players soon coming back to the side will only enhance their chances of success.

Town squad: Rory Hollingshead, Chris Powell, Dean Henman, Michael Panter, Steve Powell, Pete Brown, Mark Herbert, Stuart Hall, Nick Welch, Robbie Colwell, Ian Stewart, Dave Morris, Nick Stockley, Martin Punt, Lewis Skyers, Chris Grubb.

Tomorrow (Saturday) Ledbury Town at home to Bustlehome (2.45) and then on Wednesday (September 26) they are away at local rivals Kington (7.45).