Hughes inspires Droitwich win

9:16am Wednesday 2nd April 2008

Old Laurentians 3
Droitwich 23
Midlands Division Three West (South)

DROITWICH had the evergreen Duncan Hughes to thank for Saturday's victory over Old Laurentians.

The veteran outside half turned in a vintage performance scoring all of the Spa side's points, in a much-improved display.

With the gale force wind blowing straight down the ground, it would prove to be another game of two halves.

The visitors had the advantage of the elements in the first period and were quickly into their stride as Hughes stroked over a penalty for a lineout infringement.

Strong running from Jon Andrews, saw the alert Nick Godfrey in support to feed Andy Manns, who burst through the gap to find Hughes in support to go over for his first try.

He inevitably added the simple conversion.

Great work from Paul Sweeney, who later in the game suffered a nasty dislocation of the shoulder, found Dean Goddard in support.

He released the ball to the backs and Ross Coombes made ground before Sean Walker fed Mark Strut who was hauled down metres short.

The ball came back to Steve Poke who fed Hughes to pop over the simplest of drop goals.

He later slotted a penalty after the home side were caught offside.

Droitwich were under no illusions as to the task facing them to defend their lead, but superb play from Andrews and youngster Harry Riley ensured the home side secured precious little quality possession.

Laurentians converted a penalty to reduce the arrears, but the visitors' defence always looked secure, and despite the loss of Sweeney the forwards had the upper hand.

With time running out the Warwickshire side threw caution to the wind.

However, Hughes intercepted a pass and galloped 45 metres to touch down under the posts, completing the scoring with the conversion to round off an excellent day's work for both him and the Spa side.

EDITORS CHOICE