Ledbury RFC lose 31-17 to Shipston-on-Stour

Ledbury fell to a 31-17 defeat, but they can take confidence from a strong performance by a distinctly young side - with the oldest back being just 22 years of age. 

Shipston were ready for action from the off, and the first ten minutes saw the side blow Ledbury away. 

First, a Ledbury pass was intercepted on the away sides' 22, with the Shipston centre easily touching down to give his side a 7-0 victory upon conversion of the try. 

The score was quickly doubled as a strong period of possession saw the ball filter through the Shipston hands, being touched down in the corner by their winger. 

Shipston continued their dominance both in, and out of possession. Consistently rushing the Ledbury players in defence, and looking threatening whenever they held the ball.

Ledbury went on to concede a further try as the ball was kicked over the defensive line to be touched down again in the corner by Shipston's winger. 

They would go on to increase their lead to 24-0 with waves of strong possession leading to Ledbury's defence scrabbling, and Shipston breaking through to score again. 

There was some hope as the first half drew to a close. Ledbury's Josh Hill broke through the line, making significant ground for the away side, before being stopped just a metre from the line. 

Zac Bonfield was in close support to scoop up the ball and dive over in the corner for a try, meaning the sides went in to the break 24-5. 

With a switch of ends, and Ledbury now playing down the slope, the side enjoyed a stronger showing in the second period. 

They began to look more impressive on the ball and started to exert their own pressure, helped with some great touch kicks from George Wallin. 

As scoring looked inevitable, a dropped pass let Shipston off the hook, but showed it was game on. 

A string of conceded penalties from Shipston, allowed Ledbury to kick for the corner. They were unable to maul their way over the line, however the ball was recycled through the hands of the backs, with George Skerrett scoring to bring the score to 24-10. 

Shipston struggled for the ensuing minutes and were often pinned back in their own 22. They did manage to break through and unleashed wave after wave of ball carries, mauling their way over for a try for their open side flanker. 

Down by 14, Ledbury were able to score one final time. Wallin went on a great run, dancing his way through the defence and touching down for a try that was dually converted. 

A 31-17 loss for Ledbury but still a decent showing from such a young side on the fay. 

Next Saturday, Ledbury return home, welcoming Edwardians.