STOURPORT continued their run of improving performances with a solid display away to Stourbridge Lions, but were unable to prevent their hosts recording a 28-20 victory.

Richard Gough opened the scoring for Stourport, touching down a rolling forwards maul for the first try before Lions roared back into life.

Two converted tries in quick succession demonstrated how dangerous Stourbridge's back line could be on the counter attack.

And although centre Andy Gaskell pulled back another try for Stourport, the home side led 14-10 at the break.

The second half was a mirror image of the first in terms of scoreline with both sides running in two more tries apiece, but Stourport having the edge with two more conversions.

Steve MacDonald went over for Stourport, who also scored a penalty try to put pressure on the hosts, only for Stourbridge's superior kicking to win the day.

In the final analysis it Stourport will feel they were unlucky to concede the result and will be hoping for a better outcome when they return to North Midlands South Two action at home to Tenbury at 2.30pm on Saturday.

The seconds maintained their impressive recent form with an excellent 16-12 win over Bromsgrove thirds.

They took an early lead when Richard Dorrell made a great break from fly half to go over for an unconverted try, and this was the only score of the first half.

Dorrell added a penalty before Les Pimm scored an unconverted try after a good back row move which was set up by man of the match Chris Ellis.

Two lucky interception tries got Bromsgrove back into the match at 13-12 but the Walshes men remained calm and Dorrell was able to add his second penalty to seal the result.

The seconds have a friendly at Tenbury at 2.30pm on Saturday, but the thirds are again without a game.