Stourbridge RFC 0 - 35 Hinckley RFC

STOURBRIDGE fell victim to unforced errors and failed to capitalise on their chances as they suffered a crushing home defeat.

They faced fellow title-chasers Hinckley with plenty to prove in front of an expectant crowd at the official launch of the new AGP artificial pitch at Stourton Park.

The first half was attritional with neither side able to get the upper hand, the visitors shaded territorial advantage and it looked like there was to be no breakthrough.

Stour came close when Joe Heatley chased down a kick to the goal area on 40 minutes but the ball bounced agonisingly through to the dead ball area.

Hingley delivered a devastating blow with the last attack of the half, a break forward resulted in a drive over for a try on 45 minutes.

Joe Glover converted to make it 0-7 at half time.

The second half began with plenty of Stour pressure but they were unable to capitalise, Afeafe Haisila missed a penalty from in front of the posts and four minutes later Hinkley pushed over for a second converted try.

Stour found it tough to put together an effective attacking move.

Spilled passes and poor decisions to kick into space cost them possession and ultimately they paid the price and conceded three more converted tries as legs tired and tackles were missed.

While the scoreline may flatter the visitors there are plenty of questions for Stour to address with a trip to high-flying Tynedale next on the agenda.