LEDBURY suffered a 29-17 defeat to a well-drilled Shrewsbury side at Sundorne Castle in the first round of the Midlands Senior Vase.

Shrewsbury’s forwards dominated the first 20 minutes, notching two quick tries to open up a 12-0 lead.

But Ledbury rallied as George Bennion fired home a penalty from halfway before their line-speed in defence saw them earn a converted try before the break. After Shrewsbury fumbled Jonny Whitting hacked the ball through before gathering to dive under the posts. Bennion added the extras to close the gap to 12-10.

Ill-discipline from Ledbury was noted by the referee all too often and with Shrewsbury’s huge pack applying pressure it soon took its toll.

The hosts scored three more tries in the second half with the final one coming right at the death.

Whitting’s efforts around the breakdown was rewarded with another try, charging down from an attempted kick.

Ledbury return to Midlands Three West (South) action on Saturday when they visit Coventry Welsh.