ALCESTER skipper Andy Flynn was dramatically ordered from the touch line as tensions ran high at Kings Coughton on Saturday.

But the beleaguered hosts shocked their second placed visitors with a much-needed 20-12 win.

And a psyched up Alcester team were rewarded by swapping places with fellow strugglers Claverdon, who dropped into the relegation zone on points difference.

Alcester secretary Alan Brookes was delighted with the hard-fought win.

"It was the best game I've seen our firsts play for a season and a half," said Brookes.

"There was a lot at stake and the lads maybe had a point to prove after the injury Flynn suffered against Coventry Welsh earlier in the season.

"Flynn gave them a right talking to before the game and they were very pumped up on the pitch."

Flynn was involved in a heated argument after a neck high tackle from an opponent before trading punches with one of the replacements on the Coventry Welsh bench.

The referee ordered everyone apart from the physios and subs behind the barrier for the remainder of the match.

"One of their players, who we've encountered in the past, made a challenge right at my feet on the touchline," said Flynn.

"I told him and the ref what I thought and he wasn't happy and came over but I just held him off.

"The trouble started when one of his mates, on their bench, wanted to have a go but it was all a load of nonsense."

The stage is set for a titanic clash at Claverdon on Saturday (ko 3pm) where Brookes says a win will ensure Alcester's survival.

Paul Clarke returned as captain at the weekend after a knee injury along with fly half John Dover, centre Nick Thompson and prop Ian Oliver (neck injury).

And forward Mick Weaver came off the bench for 20 minutes after a back problem.

Prop Andy John could return for the Seconds home match against Yardleians on Saturday after trapping a nerve in his neck but centre Owen Phillips looks to be out for the rest of the season with an hamstring injury.