Sun 24 Sep 2023, 15:00
Alcester 2nd XV 19 Old Halesonians 3rd XV 21
Alcester’s 2nd XV welcomed Old Hales 3’s to Kings Coughton on Saturday for what proved to be at times, not so a friendly encounter.
Alcester started the game well, having chosen to play up the slope in the first half.
The home side were playing the better rugby, demonstrating early on just how far the team have developed in recent weeks.
Moving the ball well and keeping their structure, Alcester spent large parts of the half camped firmly inside the Old Hales 22. A determined defence from the visitors keeping the home team at bay.
The deadlock was broken when Oliver Clark intercepted an OH pass and ran in under the posts. Glyn Smith added the conversion.
Jim Watson was unlucky not to claim Alcester’s second try as his effort was scrubbed off for an earlier decision going against the home team.
As the game wore on, shape and discipline started to dissolve and the things got very scrappy.
Matt Stone and Elliot Evans managed to score a try each but Alcester’s try count was unfortunately matched by their visitors who narrowly pipped them to the win the game by bagging all three of their conversions.
Joey Wheeler made his first senior start for Alcester and did an amazing job at scrum half.
James Bates was awarded the man of the match plaudits for his invaluable contribution when he came on.
