Happy Ludlow still flying flag

The two sides play at the same level in the regional rugby pyramid - Ludlow in Midlands 3 West North) and Silhillians in the southern equivalent.

And with both riding high in their respective league tables, a close game was expected.

And that is exactly how it worked out, with Ludlow soaking up a lot of pressure and hitting their visitors successfully on the counter attack.

"It was a very tight game, like we always knew it was going to be," said Ludlow skipper Matt Young.

"They came across to us in a confident mood, but we're playing pretty well at the moment and always fancied our chances.

"We're the only Shropshire side left in and hopefully we can keep it going now. I certainly don't think we're going to face a better side than Silhillians in the competition so there's no reason why not."

A Mark Williams try put the hosts ahead, but Silhillians hit back with two penalties.

That looked like being it for the first half, but Williams scored a drop goal with the last kick of the period to restore the lead for his side.

Silhillians poured on the pressure in the opening minutes of the second half and had Ludlow camped in their own 22.

But Derek Sandell took matters into his own hands, brilliantly intercepting a pass and then running the whole length of the pitch to score under the posts.

Williams converted and later added another penalty to round off the scoring.

Bishop's Castle saw their hopes ended as they fell to a 45-15 defeat against a strong Sutton Coldfield team.

Sutton, currently lying second in Midlands 3 West (North), were always going to be favourites against their Shropshire opponents from the division below.

And the form book held true on this occasion, as two early tries set the tone for the afternoon.

Castle fought valiantly, and were rewarded with three unconverted tries of their own, scrum-half Ben Skip and second row Pete Beavan among the scorers.

"Their talent showed, especially in their backs," said spokesman Darren Price.

"But we battled on and it was a good marker to show the skill and speed we have to gain if we are going to progress to the league above.

"There were good performances from centre Pete Hughes and winger and captain Gary Waters and we scored three good tries, but our defence was not organised or strong enough and that is a point we must look at."

Picture: Ludlow back Will Norton is grabbed by an opponent at The Linney.