LEDBURY lost out by a single point as Berkswell & Balsall got their revenge for a reverse earlier in the season to run out 14-13 victors.
After three weekends of storm induced inaction it was welcome relief when the pitch beat a 10am pitch inspection.
On the day of their annual captain’s lunch the side showed off their new Little Princess Trust branded away kit.
The day also saw LRFC junior Jay Smith’s sponsored haircut raise over £2300, and still counting.
Playing into a strong wind, Ledbury began well, forcing a penalty which George Bennion casually converted.
The larger abrasive Berkswell & Balsall pack then responded and for much of the first half Ledbury were forced on the defensive.
After numerous probing attacks the visitors ran two tries over the whitewash.
With the clock running down to half-time, Ledbury finally managed to get into the opposition half and put the ever fleet Matt Hallett away for a try in the corner.
At 14-8 behind at the break Ledbury were reasonably hopeful that with wind advantage, the second half would see them clinch victory.
The home side began well, camping inside the visitors 22 for 10 minutes before they were rewarded with another try for Hallett.
Bennion was unable to convert which proved costly as the match now became a huge arm wrestle, both sides fighting tooth and nail for every yard of territory.
Ledbury were unfortunate that the wind dropped in the second half, negating any supposed advantage as they were narrowly beaten.
This weekend sees the re-arranged home league match against Alcester.
The hosts could face another tough tie after the sides drew 6-6 in the reverse fixture.
