DROITWICH turned in an excellent second-half display to record a narrow 25-22 win at Solihull-based Silhillians in Midlands Three West (South).

The visitors looked rushed and short of confidence in the opening exchanges which saw the home side go over for a try. However, outside-half Duncan Hughes closed the gap with a penalty.

The Spa forwards were winning a solid supply of possession through good work by Phil Horton and returning veteran second-row Jon Andrews, but too often it was very slow.

The Sils' backs always looked dangerous and, after Droitwich were drawn inside, they launched an attack from deep inside their own half to increase their lead.

On the stroke of half-time, the visitors seemed to get the stroke of luck they needed to kick-start their season.

Horton took the ball forward and appeared to knockon in the tackle, but the referee let play continue for the ever-alert James Davies to follow up and score. Hughes added the extras.

The second period began with sloppy defence by Droitwich. A kick missed touch, tackles were missed and the home side scored again to stretch their lead to 19-10. Droitwich came to life and raised their game with Hughes, Steve Poke and Dean Goddard to the fore.

The pressure brought mistakes from Sils allowing Hughes to add two further penalties. The home side hit back with a kick of their own, but Hughes added two further difficult kicks to level the score at 22-22.

The home side pressed forward and forced Droitwich to infringe, giving them a kicking opportunity. Fortunately for Spa, the effort sailed wide.

One last attack saw Sils kill the ball and the immaculate Hughes kicked the winning penalty.

Man of the match Hughes said: "We really went up a gear and showed what we can do. We are all thoroughly delighted to get our first league win."