BEN Thomas was the hero of the day as Droitwich Spa RFC First XV secured the narrowest of victories at Southam.

Thomas, on as a replacement prop, went over for a close range try with barely two minutes left of last Saturday's encounter to steal the points. But the usually reliable Matt Blackmore had a wretched day with his goal kicking, missing four attempts.

However, director of rugby Julian Bailey was full of praise for his side's effort.

He said: "A really good point from Saturday's match was that all the way through Southam had their noses in front and sometimes we have dropped our heads but in the last 15 minutes the effort and commitment was there for all to see so credit to the team."

Bailey was also glad to register a victory after the 26-8 defeat against Old Leamingtonians.

"I don't think we have ever won at Southam in a league game so it was good to come away with a win under our belts," he added. "It was good to get back on a winning run hopefully and put the disappointment behind us."

Southam started brightly and took the lead with a penalty. Droitwich, who had to make several late changes to their pack, then began to assert themselves, but were unable to get the desired consistency. However, they did take the lead when the ever try-hungry Jamie Faulkener scored.

Southam hit back to take the lead with penalties either side of half time. Droitwich then upped the tempo, but were unable to get any points on the board.

Then, with time running out, Droitwich made one last surge for the Southam line, and young Thomas drove over for victory.

l Spa are hoping to organise some competitive rugby for this Saturday as they have a gap in their schedule.

The Glyn Mitchell Memorial Ground team is due to travel to Midlands One outfit Luctonians in the first round of the North Midlands Cup, pencilled into the diary for this weekend.

But Luctonians play their Powergen Intermediate Cup fifth round match with Bradford and Bingley this Saturday and that competition takes precedence.

A date will be set once Luctonians have fulfilled that fixture.