NORTH East Worcestershire Ravens enjoyed a hard fought game against Nottingham Outlaws, where they put in a creditable performance despite the 48-8 defeat.

Ravens fielded a young team with seven players aged just 19 or under, with three making their senior Rugby League debut.

The away side started the game with a strong defensive set, gang tackling the outlaw winger and driving them into touch. Unfortunately the wet and slippery conditions lead to an error filled opening half, while the more experienced outlaws managed to convert more of their opportunities and out-scored Ravens six tries to one.

Winger Rob White ran in a great blindside touch down in the 15th minute but Ravens went into the break trailing 32-4.

The second half developed in to a much livelier half with some interesting referee decisions that frustrated both sides but Ravens struggled with the situation more.

Nottingham quickly took advantage but Ravens refused to lay down and scored through a perfect cross field kick from captain Dave Swaysland, spectacularly touched down by flying fullback Brad Sinclair.

The Outlaws replied in the 50th minute after several penalties go there way.

The hosts became frustrated with the Ravens' tenacity boiled and their number 11 repeatedly punched Ravens prop Dylan Fennall as he stood up to play the ball.

Fennall retaliated and the rest of his squad quickly followed him in to the altercation.

Both players were sent to the sin bin and Nottingham were penalised for the original offence.

With both sides down to 12 men, Nottingham managed to take advantage of the space and added more scores.

Ravens continued to defend doggedly as their superior fitness had an impact but Nottingham finished the game with another try.

Worcestershire were disappointed with the loss but pleased with the second half performance as well as that of the debut player especially man of the match Chris Cooke.

They play Boston Buccaneers at home next Saturday and the U13s return to Nottingham next Sunday for a Midlands festival.