They came up against a well organised strong side, which are understandably top of the table. Civil Service dominated the game from the start through their pack, putting the Ways scrum under constant pressure. Ways were soon 5 – 0 down. Despite losing fly half Dave Potter to injury, they rallied and began to attack through the backs, winning a couple of penalties that Foxall knocked over to give them the lead (5 – 6).

This is how it remained until just before the break when a period of pressure earned the home side a penalty, and Ways a warning for consistently infringing at the breakdown. The hosts went into half time frustrated that their forward dominance hadn’t resulted in more points due to some poor handling in their backs.

Ways knew that if they could continue to frustrate their opponents they could still get a result. Unfortunately, precision returned to the Civil Service back line who managed to capitalise upon their forwards continued dominance. Ways used their replacements to try and stem the tried with little effect. All it resulted in was our replacement prop and Services hooker being sin binned for fighting, and a little unnecessary name calling.

From early in the second half the result was decided in favour of the home side, who ran in 3 tries in the second period. Despite this Ways continued to do all they could to get back in the game, and Alex deserves a mention as he tackled and supported valiantly, covering every blade of grass on the pitch.

We have a friendly this week before our Presidents Day on 19 February when we entertain Bromyard in the league.

Ron has said that he will be ready to coach however turns up on Thursdays as well as the usual Tuesday nights from now on. Can we all ensure that we do all we can to support him and Seamus (Chris Ashton dive-a-like) as captain.