CLAVERDON RFC secured a losing bonus point as the Lions took league leaders Manor Park all the way in a narrow 22-16 defeat on their annual ladies vice presidents event.
James Williams crossed for Claverdon’s only try in the second half as Sam Turrell kicked six points and Will Jackson three in a valiant performance at Ossetts Hole Lane.
The result means Claverdon sit seventh in the Counties 2 Midlands West (South) table.
Manor Park raced into a 10-point lead after two well-worked early tries before a converted score from a driving maul increased the leaders’ advantage further.
However, Claverdon kept their hopes of a comeback alive when Turrell kicked two penalties before half time to reduce the deficit to 11 points.
And the home side struck first in the second period when Williams charged down a kick to cross for an easy converted try.
Claverdon’s celebrations were short-lived as a simple but effective move from Manor Park saw them respond with a converted score of their own.
The Lions were forced to dig deep to claw their way back into the game as Jackson found a pocket of space to nudge the ball between the posts and add another three points to close the gap to six points.
However, despite Claverdon’s best efforts, the Manor Park defence held firm and were relieved to hear the final whistle as they came away with a narrow victory.
Claverdon are next in action away at Tenbury on Saturday, February 25 with kick-off at 2.15pm at Worcester Road.
