Bromsgrove 24, Sandbach 19

BROMSGROVE edged out Sandbach in a fiercely contested National Midlands Division Three clash.

Despite both teams being safely nestled in mid-table, they went out all guns blazing at Finstall Park to win the game.

The game was settled in the host's favour by their extra power, which edged out Sandbach's extra pace.

Bromsgrove had been hit hard by injuries and were forced into a change of style.

The Boars fielded a heavyweight pack and without several of their quicker players, focused on having the lion's share of possession.

After a fairly frenetic start it was Town who began to exert some pressure and a series of driving mauls culminated in Kevin Salisbury proving unstoppable from one metre. Jon Critchlow converted.

Bromsgrove continued to dominate territory and possession but were tending to force the game without quite enough control.

This proved costly when they got turned over and quick ball for Sandbach meant winger Jack Leach was able to go the length of the park to score.

Five minutes later, 'Grove scored their second when good work from the influential Phil Horton gave Tom Millen the space to score in the corner.

Sandbach bounced back when Forbes Edwards pounced on a loose ball to grab a try, which Benny Elliot converted.

Town continued to dominate but Sandbach always looked dangerous in possession.

After 30 minutes, Bromsgrove retook the lead with James Lloyd Jones, who had an excellent match, scoring a great try which Critchlow converted.

Bromsgrove came out of their blocks the stronger with forwards Chris Morgan, Matt Edgar, Bobby Green and Gino Belmonte prominent in all phases. They gave the platform for Critchlow to extend the lead 10 minutes into the half with a solo score. But again the visitors struck back with a solo effort from Elliot midway through the half which he also converted.

It was the same old story for the last 20 minutes with Bromsgrove on top but not quite in control and every time they lost the ball Sandbach countered but never got close enough for that elusive score to leave Bromsgrove worthy winners.