HEREFORD RFC were left disappointed after a late Ben Black try resulted in Ludlow taking a 17-10 victory in the A49 derby.

The game was notable for the energy, enthusiasm and determination shown by both sides rather than classic rugby.

The Wyesiders were penalised at the break-down, allowing the hosts to take an early three-point lead with a well struck Jack Lines penalty.

Hereford’s response was to continue to attack and the visitors gained ground from a couple of penalties.

The visitor’s first try of the afternoon was created off the back of a scrum with Levi Hughes crashing over out wide for an unconverted score.

Just before half-time Ludlow broke the deadlock with a Matt Davies try in the corner, which was converted to give them a 10- 5 lead going into the break.

Hereford responded after the break and a concerted spell of pressure including a build-up of six phases resulted in Ollie Hutcheson scoring his side’s second try and equalising the score at 10-10.

Boosted by their home support Ludlow had best field position for the majority of the second half penning the Wyesiders in their own half for much of the time.

The well organised Hereford defence gave their supporters hope that they might hold out for a draw or even snatch a winner from one of their infrequent visits into Ludlow territory.

However, it was Ludlow who snatched the winner drawing the defence out enough for Black to score in the corner and Lines kicking an impressive conversion.

“Ludlow played extremely well, their ability to keep the ball and frustrate us and the defensive strategy they employed made it difficult to get our game going at times,” said Hereford’s head coach Scott Sturdy.

“Overall, we must be disappointed with the performance to lose 17 – 10 in a local derby.”