RUGBY Welsh enjoyed a 17-14 victory over Lutterworth Thirds in a pre-season friendly.
Adam Bond used the conditions to his advantage, kicking well to put Welsh in attacking situations.
The forwards won plenty of early possession with Leigh Colledge dominating the line-out while Andy Higham, Lorenzo Gallone and Tony Reynolds working well in the back row.
Experienced scrum half Jamie Cranham kept the home side on their toes with a series of quick tap penalties to keep the game flowing with youngster Jack Worrall- Soper showing up well in the loose.
Welsh took an early lead when Bond picked up a loose ball in midfield and found Jack Taylor on his shoulder to score the first try of the season. Shortly afterwards Taylor raced away to score his second with Angus Wilson adding the conversion.
Lutterworth responded well and their powerful centre soon reduced the gap with an individual effort scoring a converted try.
However, before half-time Taylor completed his hat-trick, showing some neat steps and power to crash over for an unconverted try.
Lutterworth made some changes in the second half and with the conditions now in their favour, they dominated possession.
Welsh had to defend for long periods but with just under ten minutes left, Lutterworth narrowed the gap with a strong run by their prop for a converted try.
Welsh begin their Midlands Five West (South) campaign on Saturday at home to Birmingham Civil Service.
