BROMSGROVE battled their way to a winning start in Midlands One West after overcoming Worcester Wanderers 37-23 at Finstall Park.

But Bromsgrove didn't have matters all their own way as they missed out on the bonus and also found themselves trailing 23-11 early in the second half.

Bromsgrove head coach Dan Protherough said: "We gave away far too many penalties in the first half and didn't take our chances when they came.

"But in the second half, we finally got into our rhythm and didn't give them a chance as we scored 26 unanswered points."

Bromsgrove centre Ed Spalding scored a first half try while full back Chris Hooper landed a couple of penalties.

But indiscipline meant Worcester fly half Tom Biggs was able to punish Bromsgrove by slotting over three penalties before his side snapped up an interception try on the stroke of half time to go 16-11 in front by the interval.

A further converted try immediately upon resumption put Worcester 23-11 in front before Bromsgrove stepped up a gear.

Tries from hooker James Gunter and scrum half Will Harris put them back in front with replacement scrum half Richard Mahoney supplying the remaining points with his accurate boot.

Protherough added: "Obviously we were disappointed not to get the bonus point but that was the least of our worries at one stage. Worcester were a good side with some competitive forwards.

"I don't think it helped that we beat higher level Lichfield quite convincingly prior to this game, because I got the feeling some of the players thought it was going to be easier than it was and they only had to turn up to win.

"We will have to improve when we entertain Burton this Saturday, especially as they had a very good win over Wolverhampton this week."