Four excellent rugby matches were played by our SRFC teams this weekend. Congratulations to the 2nd XV and the Hoppers on their victories, and commiserations to the Panthers and the Colts.

Stourbridge 2nd XV 48 - Aston Old Edwardians 27
Stourbridge Panthers 7 - Stafford Women 58
Stourbridge Grasshoppers 72 - Shottery 15
Stourbridge Colts 36 - Hereford Colts 46

Read the match reports as we get them ⬇️

2nd XV ✅
Panthers
Hoppers
Colts

Stourbridge 2nd XV 48 - Aston Old Edwardians 27
Location: Stourton Park

Stourbridge Lions delivered a cohesive, rip roaring performance, just when they needed it, to ensure that the basement battle will go to the wire at Shrewsbury next week.

Try scorers

G Cattell
W Shillingford
Dylan Beech Bailey
Luke Bimson
G Westwood
Olly Lynch (3).

The early exchanges were even, with both sides able to make yardage and line breaks at will. Stour took an early lead through George Cattell however and thanks to tries from Will Shillingford, Dylan Beech Bailey and Olly Lynch, led well at half time.

Stour's passing, especially off the weaker hand, was impressive and the returning George Westwood added some superb distribution skills to the mix. Luke Bimson provided an assist off the left hand and Todd Stevens was an excellent conduit. Gazzard, Corcoran and Garwood ensured the scrum was solid, whilst Link was dynamic both sides of the ball. Charlie Thompson and Harry Wooldridge were full of energy whilst Ethan Gilbert was at his barnstorming best. Tombs was assured from the bench also, providing bravery and game management just when it was needed, to keep AOE at bay. Skipper James Dallison was as tough as old boots and led the way admirably and the rest followed. Tremendous.

Lynch's hat trick was a stamp of class and James Westwood added the extras to the score from the boot.

Westwood was later to suffer a concussion and will be missed next week.

Come what may, Stour have endured a challenging season with injury and departures robbing the side of much depth, but players have stepped up and shown huge spirit to keep the side on the cusp of survival. All roads lead to Shrewsbury, who are chasing promotion.

Author: Jake John