A DEPLETED Rugby Welsh fell short in their 38-15 defeat away to Birmingham Civil Service in Midlands 5 West (South).
The previous weekend’s cup semi-final took its toll on Welsh which enforced several changes, who were unable to deal with a full-strength Civil Service side.
Rugby’s Angus Wilson opened the scoring with an early penalty, before the hosts made serious charges into Welsh territory to instantly pin the visitors back.
An injury to captain Adam Bond failed to improve their fortunes, but managed to hold firm in defence to shut out the constant threat that Civil Service posed.
The scores would be overturned however when a penalty and two converted tries entered Birmingham into a lead, though Robin Tyerman went close to forcing a try in response before the break.
Jamie Cranham was a live wire for Welsh and looked the likeliest player to make things happen, whilst Andy Higham’s return from a long-term injury proved a positive point for his side.
Civil Service eventually broke Rugby’s resolve and went further ahead with two more converted tries.
Loz Galleno scored a consolation try whilst Wilson added points from the conversion, but the hosts struck with the final try of the afternoon to seal a deserved win.
Welsh will hope to end their recent downturn in form when hosting fifth placed Atherstone on Saturday (2:15pm).
