Ledbury fell to a narrow 10-5 home defeat in a thrilling clash with league high-fliers Moseley Oak.
Despite the low scoreline, the Regional Two Midlands West League match at Ross Road was an exciting contest, with Ledbury nearly tipping the balance in their favour in the final minutes.
The conditions were far from ideal, with rain creating a muddy pitch, but both teams adapted well for a forward-heavy game.
Ledbury's pack was particularly impressive, dominating the scrum throughout.
Moseley were on the attack from the start, appearing to score early on, only for it to be ruled out.
Ledbury fought back, clearing their lines with kicks from Iolo Bubb and Jack Hughes, while Ed Bennion was a force around the scrums and mauls.
Despite forcing a penalty at the scrum, Ledbury's offside infringement gifted Moseley a penalty opportunity, which they failed to convert.
Moseley eventually capitalised as they opened the scoring with a try from a five-metre lineout drive.
Ledbury responded quickly, with George Wallin, Bennion, and John Clark driving them into Moseley territory.
A perfect penalty kick to touch from Bubb set up a lineout, from which Jock Welch scored to make it 5-5 after 25 minutes.
The remainder of the half was a back-and-forth battle, with neither side able to capitalise.
Ledbury were fortunate to avoid conceding when a Moseley lineout throw was deemed not straight on the five metre line.
The second half continued at the same pace, with both sides testing each other.
Ledbury's defence held firm under pressure, but they were eventually breached from another five-metre throw, giving Moseley a 10-5 lead.
Fresh legs gave Ledbury momentum, with Wallin, Josh Bishop, and Hughes all probing threateningly.
Minutes from the end, Ledbury had a golden opportunity to take the lead from a penalty throw on Moseley's five-metre line, but Moseley's defence held firm.
Despite the loss, Ledbury's performance was amongst their most cohesive and impressive of the season, and they can take confidence from this as they look ahead to a clash with league leaders Newent on Saturday, March 1.
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