IN-FORM Ledbury climbed to fifth in Midlands Three West (South) after a 21-19 win at Cheltenham North.

Despite being without five key players, the Ross Road squad’s strength and depth helped beat traditionally tough opponents.

But Ledbury started poorly and conceded a try in the corner.

They dominated the set-piece and George Bennion missed a penalty before landing one to make it 7-3 at half-time. Ledbury could not build on their forward dominance but defended well against strong ball carriers.

However, the hosts bagged a second try after a slick backs move from a close-range line-out.

Ledbury replied from a 10-metre line-out when they drove through and Nat Jenkins scored an unconverted effort.

The score lifted the visitors and Chris Stokes’ fancy footwork helped him coast over.

Bennion’s conversion put Ledbury ahead and Cheltenham imploded with two yellow cards.

Two 40-metre penalties were landed by Bennion to ensure a late converted try from Cheltenham was just a consolation.

Meanwhile, second-placed Newent returned to winning ways in Southern Counties North with a 31-7 victory at Keynsham.