Earlsdon 12, Droitwich 14

IAIN Young’s double earned Droitwich a hard fought win in Coventry and stretched their winning streak in the Midlands Two West (South) to eight games.

A try in each half by Spa’s full back proved to be the difference as they moved up one place to third.

The visitors started this traditionally tough game well, turning over the kick-off and putting several phases together, however, one move too many meant they became isolated and lack of support allowed Earlsdon to regain the ball.

The following phases of play went back and forth before the home side deservedly scored a penalty after a period of pressure to make it 3-0.

But Droitwich responded well and Stephen Poke was there to gather the ball excellently and set up an attack.

Young raced in to complete the counter-attack and score under the posts, while Ryan Handley then converted to hand them a 7-3 lead.

But Spa’s ill-discipline cost them when Earlsdon kicked over a penalty to make it 7-6 at the break.

With clear messages at half-time from coach Scott Sturdy, Droitwich knew if discipline could improve then this game would be there for the taking.

But with Earlsdon competing well at the breakdown and mounting several phases of play, Droitwich’s strong defence conceded another kick as the hosts edged ahead 9-7 following Russell Brown’s yellow card.

Despite being a man down, Spa hit back and Young grabbed his second touch down, which Handley converted.

Earlsdon scored a fourth penalty to close the gap to two points but backs-to-the-wall defending saw off the home side’s late push.

Droitwich will be looking for league win number nine at home to Newbold-on-Avon on Saturday (2.15pm ko).