Shrewsbury back in contention

Shrewsbury are back in contention for the Midlands Four (West) title after a 24-6 success over Newcastle.

The Sundorne Castle men now find themselves second in the table ahead of Burntwood.

And, despite being six points adrift of leaders Willenhall having played one games less, captain Paul Bolland insists the title is not beyond them.

"I think it's all still up for grabs," he said. "In the last few few games, ourselves, Willenhall and Burntwood all play each other so anything could happen then.

"Saturday was an important win. We couldn't play an expansive game because of the conditions but the forwards dominated up front."

Tries from Simon Evetts, Jason Allicone, JJ Beasley and James Plant sealed the triumph, with two conversions coming from Andy Swann.

Cleobury Mortimer appear destined to finish bottom of the pile after going down 24-12 at Moseley Oak.

Even before kick-off, there was a surprise for the south Shropshire side as they learned the game was to be played on an all-weather surface.

It took a while for Cleobury to adjust and they found themselves 14-0 behind at the break, before tries from James Manley and Sam Sutton – as well as a Craig Shorter conversion – reduced the deficit.

But Moseley finished the stronger and added a converted try and a penalty to leave Cleobury cut adrift at the bottom.

Winter skiing holidays deprived Bishop's Castle of eight regular players – and it was all downhill at Burntwood where they suffered a 37-5 defeat.

Second row Pete Bevan scored Castle's only points with a close range try.

By JAMES GARRISON