OLD LEAMINGTONIANS edged a close-fought battle with Ledbury to run out 22-20 victors in Midlands 3 West (South).
Without a competitive fixture in two weeks, OL’s were evidently rusty and lacked in their usual rhythm in a lacklustre first-half.
Ledbury took advantage of the host not being up to speed by running over the whitewash with three minutes gone for a converted try.
To Old Leam’s credit, they did ensure that Ledbury’s pacy three-quarters were kept at bay, but could not prevent a second try being scored after a breakaway.
With a 20-point deficit to overcome, OL’s eventually began to shift momentum in their favour and registered their first score of the match through Ciaran O’Connor – although the conversion was missed.
Forcing Ledbury back into their own 22 from the restart, another attack eventually fell to Felix Heath who touched down the second try, again with the extra points not being added.
In similar fashion from the game kicking-off once more, Old Leamingtonians continued to apply pressure, which paid dividends when Heath scored his second try of the game, and with the points added, brought OL’s to within three of Ledbury.
Sensing that the game was theirs for the taking, Old Leam dominated proceedings but were initially unable to get the go-ahead points with time ticking down.
That was until a move down the left was quickly punted crossfield to right-wing Callum Semple, who scored in the corner to win it for his side.
The bonus point win ultimately secures at least third place in the league this season for the club, who next take on Manor Park away on Saturday.
