Claverdon put in valiant performance but come up short at title-chasing Manor Park

Manor Park 33-15 Claverdon

Counties Two Midlands West (South)

CLAVERDON brought the curtain down on the latest block of fixtures with defeat at high-flying Manor Park.

The hosts started the better and a quick tap penalty in the away side’s 22 led to the first score of the game, with the conversion successfully slotted over.

Indiscipline from the Lions then allowed Manor Park to add a second early try, as they maximised field position to win their line-out and score in the corner.

Claverdon responded with a penalty kick that was perfectly executed by James Williams.

However, they then allowed the home team to stretch their lead after repeated phases in the Claverdon half eventually resulted in another try scored in the corner.

On the stroke of half-time the visitors clawed their way back into the game with a try of their own.

A clever kick through from centre George Redwood was chased by winger James Gibney who dotted down.

The second half began in a cagey manner, however, an unlucky yellow card for Josh Dean allowed Manor Park to once again to move into the ascendancy.

Despite valiant defending from Josh Evans among others, the home team scored twice in quick succession to take the game beyond Claverdon.

In the last few minutes, sustained Claverdon pressure led to a consolation try but Manor Park ran out 33-15 winners.

The Lions now have a week off before returning to action on Saturday, 26th November when third-placed Old Wheatleyans visit Ossetts Hole Lane.