ALEX GROVE scored a first-half hat-trick as Claverdon RFC took a big step towards the title with a comprehensive 50-14 success against third-placed Bedworth.
Grove’s treble was added to by two tries from George Redwood and further scores from Chris Calcott, Charlie Byrd and Robbie Foster as the hosts romped to an eight-try success.
The result leaves Claverdon 13 points clear at the top of the Midlands 4 West (South) table, having won all 13 of their matches this season.
Claverdon raced into an early lead when full back Grove burst through a gap in the midfield to score his first try after being released by Ben Husthwaite.
And Grove soon had his second when he finished underneath the posts from Redwood’s pass with both tries converted by Calcott.
The game was put to bed when Calcott converted a try of his own after galloping through the Bedworth defence.
However, Bedworth hit back with a try when they drove over from close range after several pick and go phases.
Claverdon ended the half on the front foot when Grove completed his treble after stepping inside a flat-footed defence to score with Calcott’s kick sending the hosts into the break with a 28-7 lead.
And the home side added to their lead in the second period when Redwood beat his opposite wing to score in the corner with Calcott successfully kicking the conversion from the touchline.
Redwood then showed quick hands to out Byrd in space to score before crossing for his second try in similar fashion to his first.
Bedworth scored their second converted try following a quick penalty only for Claverdon to complete the scoring when Foster used his pace to dot down.
Claverdon are next in action at home to Chaddesley Corbett on Saturday, February 19 with kick-off at 2.15pm at Ossetts Hole Lane.
