A THIRD consecutive win has moved Rugby Welsh up to second in the Midlands 5 West (South) league after they came away from Wellesbourne with a 7-0 victory.
Despite not being at their best, Welsh showed plenty of resolve to grind out a narrow victory on Saturday against a spirited Wellesbourne side.
Conditions, as usual this season, were wet and windy, particularly in the first half and Welsh struggled to gain control of the game in the early stages.
However Wellesbourne belied their lowly position in the league by confidently attempting to run the ball through their young backs.
The Welsh defence was firm but they struggled to go through the phases as the home side counter rucked effectively throughout to turn over possession or create Welsh mistakes.
The best chance of the first half came from a lineout close to the line midway through the first half but it eventually came to nothing.
Although they could not take the opportunity, Welsh did manage to take the lead shortly before half time when, after a typical bulldozing run by Adam Bond, a quick ruck ball enabled Jamie Roche to crash over for the try which Guy Shaw converted.
This proved to be the match winning score, as despite opportunities for both sides, there were no further scores in the second half.
James Buckland was narrowly denied a try following a long kick and chase while the scrummage was an area where Welsh dominated proceedings.
Wellesbourne’s back row was experienced and mobile, but Higham, Mawby and Reynolds worked hard throughout to nullify their effect.
The hosts stuck to their game plan and did cause Welsh problems but they were unable to find a breakthrough.
Next up for Welsh is a crucial top-of-the-table clash this Saturday at Five Ways Old Edwardians.
