CLAVERDON RFC slipped to a frustrating 22-14 defeat away at Woodrush as the visitors just missed out on a losing bonus point for their efforts.
George Hazard and Will Jackson crossed in either half for Claverdon with James Williams adding both conversions at Icknield Street.
The result leaves Claverdon in seventh place in the Counties 2 Midlands West (South) table.
In a bruising contest, Woodrush struck first with a penalty after Claverdon were penalised well within range of the posts.
And the home side scored the game’s first try from a scrum on Claverdon’s five-metre line.
However, Claverdon responded when a flowing move carved open a stubborn Woodrush defence as James Barton did the damage before Hazard charged over the line following a long spell of possession.
Williams added the conversion to send Claverdon into the break trailing by a single point.
Claverdon struggled on their own lineout in the second period and that ultimately proved decisive as turnover ball allowed Woodrush to capitalise and take a 22-7 lead.
The visitors continued to search for a way back into the contest as centre Jackson bulldozed over to set up an exciting final 10 minutes.
However, Williams missed with a penalty attempt which would have secured a losing bonus point and Alex Grove saw red following a rush of blood to the head.
Claverdon are next in action away at Manor Park on Saturday, November 12 at Griff and Coton Sports Club.
