Super stone shines for Shrewsbury
Oscar Stone enjoyed a stunning debut as free-scoring Shrewsbury ran riot against Handsworth, writes Nick Elwell.
The 18-year-old winger marked his senior debut in stunning fashion with a four-try blitz.
Jack Martin also touched down three times as Shrewsbury powered their way to a resounding 89-7 success, scoring 13 tries in the process.
And fly-half Ashley Patterson also had an afternoon to remember as he landed 12 conversions with his other attempt hitting the post.
The free-flowing display secured a third straight Midlands 3 West (North) win for the Sundorne Castle outfit and leaves them sitting second in the table.
“It was a pleasing performance,” said head coach Simon Evitts. “We scored 13 tries in all and some of the supporters said afterwards that was some of the best rugby they had seen at the club in years.
“Handsworth where one of the sides who beat us last season so it was nice to extract a bit of revenge.”
Evitts was delighted with his side’s cutting edge and was quick to praise teenager Stone.
“Oscar scored four tries on his debut from the wing, which was some start to senior rugby,” said Evitts. “He is a very good, young player.
“Our full-back Jack Martin scored three tries and our other winger, JJ Lowrie-Herz also scored.
“We played some good, expansive rugby and the back three looked very dangerous when they had the ball in hand.
“We have scored the most points in our division so far and are second best in terms of points conceded. We are chuffed with how we have started the season.”
Rob Sankey (two), Brett Doughty, Killan Casey and Sean Chubb also touched down for Shrewsbury, who led 49-0 at half-time.
Cleobury Mortimer slipped to fourth in the table following a 38-0 defeat at Burntwood.
Clee Hill suffered their first league loss of the season when succumbing 43-12 at early leaders Rugeley in the Midlands 4 West (North).
Church Stretton crashed 69-5 at unbeaten early leaders Warley in Midlands 5 West (North), making it two defeats out of two.
On Saturday, they are due to visit local rivals Bishop’s Castle and Onny Valley who are also looking for their first points.
