This physical and well-contested game was enjoyed by players and spectators alike, though quite a few of the former were in need of a good Radox bath following the final whistle. It was also played in good spirit, though the occasional exchange of handbags and real-time on-pitch commentary from both sides tested the referee’s patience on several occasions.

With good pressure from early on, it was Evesham who took the lead deep into the first half. The try (unconverted) came from a good push at the scrum close to the Worcester line – a facet of the game they dominated throughout. The line-out was a different matter, with Worcester showing a marked improvement on previous weeks – not only winning their own, but stealing some opposition ball.

Despite this, and whilst temporarily down to 14 men for one of those exchanges of handbags, Worcester conceded a second try (unconverted), followed by a successful penalty kick (0-13) early in the second half. Despite the deficit, and an unfamiliar back-line due to a couple of key absences, Worcester continued to battle, moving the ball well amongst the backs with the forwards finding their deserved confidence. It was from a quick tap penalty that Worcester’s No. 8 Joe Ord secured a try (unconverted) with just a few minutes remaining. This was too late, however, for Worcester to come back and snatch a victory. Here’s hoping for a return match in the not too distant future.

Garbett and Jones – England and wails