Ludlow hopes kept alive

The Linney men remained in third place in the table after a convincing victory over Wolverhampton on Saturday, but are keeping the pressure on leaders Lichfield and second placed Old Saltleians.

The champions will seal automatic promotion to Midlands One, while a play-off berth will be the prize for the runners-up in the division.

Director of rugby Phil Norton is refusing to make predictions, but admitted: "It's going to be an exciting finish."

Ludlow's form certainly appears strong as they over-powered Wolverhampton 45-3.

Nick Davies opened the scoring with an early try, with Will Norton adding a conversion and two penalties.

Andrew Brick scored the second try for the visitors and, despite Wolverhampton grabbing a penalty, normal service was resumed before half-time when Joe Doyle crossed the line after good work from Tom Rawlings.

Leading 23-3 at the interval, there was no let up after the break as Dan Rawlings, Doyle, Brick and Tom Rawlings all scored tries, with Norton adding a further conversion.

Shrewsbury remain in deep trouble at the other end of the table after slumping to a 20-5 defeat at Willenhall.

The only bright spot for the Sundorne men was a try from Steve Mills, a new recruit from RAF Shawbury who was making his debut at outside centre.

"It was a very poor performance in the first half in particular and we have to improve on it quickly," said captain Paul Bolland.

Bridgnorth's recent revival continued as they edged out Dixonians 8-7.

"We lost to Ludlow by exactly the same score two weeks ago so it makes up for that a little bit," said captain Gareth Bladen.

"It was a very pleasing performance and it shows how much we have developed."

Bridgnorth broke the deadlock early on with a Craig Thomas try after good work from Dan Markevics and Bladen.

A converted score from Dixonians saw them edge in front but Matt Farrington proved the Bridgnorth hero when he slotted home a tricky penalty with five minutes remaining.

By JAMES GARRISON