Park Beaten but not unbowed as champions elect show their class

Almost 12 months to the day from this encounter in Worcestershire, Droitwich became the only side to be defeated by Bedworth in the 2015/16 Midlands 2 West South season as both exited via the trap door.

The differing fortunes of those two relegated clubs has been stark as Droitwich are yet to taste defeat - or even draw - any of their 16 Midlands 3 West South games so far this season.

With this victory they moved 23 points clear of second-placed Ledbury, who lost at Evesham to spice up the battle for the runners-up spot.

Park, who equalled their wins total (seven) from the 2013/14 season last time out against Bedworth, were stripped of many of their main assets for the daunting trip south east.

And despite taking an early lead through Chris Morewood’s successful penalty, were 24-3 down at the interval as the ruthlessly efficient hosts ran home four unanswered tries.

In what would become a key feature of the afternoon for the visitors, their heads did not drop.

Far from it, after half-time it was Park who struck first when Chris Goode drove over to score his sixth try of the season which was converted by Morewood.

Alas that was to be the last score of the game for Park but they put up a great fight against an excellent Droitwich team who looked far better than the level they are playing at. They scored a further five tries of which four were converted to give final score of 57-10.

Captain Chris Goode commented:

“It’s always a bit daunting to go away to a top-of-the-league side, especially when they’ve barely dropped a point all season. But I was so proud of the way the lads stuck at it.

“We had a lot of lads unavailable but other players put up their hand and did a shift for the club. Lineker Lashley, who was man of the match for the second team against Pinley last weekend, was superb, and it was good to see two more lads make their first team debuts in Cam Brotherhood and Dale Bratt.

“It’s also good to see Lewis Collins and Joe Reynolds looking strong as a centre partnership.

“Ultimately we were outgunned by a side who were just class. They have incredible facilities and train three times a week, they deserve to be where they are in the league.

“But we did not fall apart like the scoreline might suggest and now it’s down to us to bounce back and go get a result at Upton on Saturday.

“I also want to give a big shout out to the second team. We took Cam Brotherhood and Dale Bratt as well as Nicky Bennett, Jamie Garratt and Neil Fitzpatrick, who have been in the seconds of late. But still they got a squad of 19 together to travel all the way to Quorn and scored five tries in what sounded like an entertaining game.

“A strong second team is key to the success of any club at this level and we’re grateful for the hard work put in by Podge Everard and his lads, week in, week out.”

Park are training at Nuneaton Academy’s 3G pitch on Wednesday from 7.45pm. No metal studs allowed. Please confirm with Chris Goode if attending.

Then on Thursday we are heading to the Lord Nelson Inn in Ansley for a meal night. All affiliated with Manor Park are welcome.

Our hosts, who also house Sperrin Brewery – Victory Beers, have been a loyal sponsor of the club for many years. Contact Liam Rose ASAP to confirm your participation.

This weekend the firsts are at Upton while the seconds make the short trip to Coventry Welsh. Both are league games. Please get your confirmations into Chris Goode, or either Everard as soon as possible.