Bridgnorth ensured the relegation heat remains firmly on Shrewsbury – but then insisted they hope their Shropshire rivals beat the drop.

Bridgnorth were 29-18 away winners at Sundorne Castle in Midlands Two West (North) on Saturday.

The result leaves Shrewsbury third from bottom and precariously placed.

Two teams are expected to be relegated, and Shrewsbury are currently three points clear of the bottom two Wolverhampton and Ashbourne.

But the two teams at the foot of the table are playing each other in the final game.

“It was a big win for us but we would like to see Shrewsbury stay up,” said Bridgnorth captain Gareth Bladen.

“We enjoy our games against them so hopefully they will stay out of the bottom two.”

First blood went to Shrewsbury thanks to a penalty from Steve Mills, but Bridgnorth quickly wrestled control of the game thanks to two quickfire tries from Matt Farrington, who converted the second.

Centre Dan Harrison gave Bridgnorth hope with a try just before half-time to reduce the deficit to 12-8, but Bridgnorth were back in control when flanker Corey Barlow ended a fine move by crossing the line.

Nick Challenor and Danny Griffiths each added tries for Bridgnorth, with Farrington successful with one conversion, and, while Paul Bolland and Phil Andrews grabbed consolation scores for Shrewsbury, there was to be no way back.

“It was disappointing because we had lots of territory and possession but Bridgnorth took their chances and we didn’t,” said Shrewsbury spokesman Mattie Morris.

• There is a midweek treat for Shropshire rugby fans with Bridgnorth playing host to Oswestry tomorrow night in the North Midlands Shield. The Severn Park clash kicks off at 6pm.

By JAMES GARRISON