Highley have withdrawn from the Midlands League pyramid – because they were no longer enjoying their rugby.

The club, which only formed in 2006, was in its third season of competing in Midlands 5 West (SW) but will now go back to playing friendlies.

In 43 league games they managed just three wins and one draw — and all of those victories came during their debut season.

“The fun just isn’t what it used to be,” said club co-founder Leon Aspin, who is also the fixture secretary and forwards coach. “We’ve found ourselves struggling to compete, to be honest.

“I don’t think we were naive to jump into the league because we had two sides at the time and we had a good first season, but this season we’re not as strong for one reason or another.

“We’ve got lads who still want to play rugby, but they don’t want to go to the other side of Birmingham on a Saturday afternoon with a weakened side only to get hammered.

“We want to return to being a village side that has fun and plays for pleasure.”

Highley have informed league officials of their decision and are withdrawing with immediate effect, meaning this weekend’s derby clash against Clee Hill will not take place.

They will instead look to arrange regular friendlies for the rest of the campaign before considering entering the Shropshire Merit Leagues next season.

Aspin also hopes to attract a number of former players who became disillusioned to return to the club again.

They have already had some success, with a number of old faces back in the fold last Saturday, when they had no scheduled cup or league fixture and instead won 48-22 in a friendly against Shrewsbury IV.

“We’ll play a few friendlies and try and find our level,” he added. “Our goal is still to get back into the Midlands League in a few years.

“It’s always going to be hard for us when it’s only seven miles to Cleobury and six miles to Bridgnorth.

“Our youth go to school in Bridgnorth and get lost in their youth set-up.”

Aspin said the club are now looking for friendlies in the Shropshire area. Anyone interested should contact Aspin on 07752 207823.

By CHRIS HUDSON