RUGBY Welsh continued their climb up the Midlands Five West (South) table with a 31-5 victory away to Atherstone.
Playing with confidence following their recent successes in the cups, Welsh started well and in their opening attack forwards Leigh Colledge and Pete Head made some impressive drives and following a deft pass from Adam Bond, winger Anthony Reynolds raced in for the opening score.
Welsh dominated the opening quarter with powerful forward drives, allied to the direct midfield running of Bond which created further try scoring opportunities.
Robin Tyerman had another impressive game at full back and he was rewarded, following a further period of pressure, when he crashed over from short range for a try converted by Angus Wilson.
Welsh looked to be in for a comfortable afternoon when Bond scored the third try after 25 minutes to give his side a 17-point lead.
To Atherstone’s credit they worked their way back into the game, with their attacking full back looking dangerous and their forwards carrying the ball well.
They reduced the gap with an unconverted try before half time and competed well throughout the second half.
Welsh were lacklustre for a while, giving away some penalties and over-complicating some moves.
However, they regained their composure in the final 15 minutes of the contest, with Jamie Cranham competing well in the unaccustomed flanker role.
Jack Taylor always looked dangerous with the ball in hand and he created an opportunity for Bond to score his second try and seal the bonus point victory, with Wilson adding the extra points.
Taylor completed the scoring in the final moments of the game with a well taken try in the corner, well converted by Wilson.
Welsh have found out they will now play their Midland Vase semi-final in the New Year, with date to be confirmed.
On Saturday, Welsh are in Clonwell Cup action against St Andrews 2nds.
Kick off at 2.15pm at Alwyn Road.
