THERE were reasons to be cheerful at Cleobury Mortimer after they returned to winning ways in Midlands Four West (South) with a 17-15 success at Redditch.

With only one narrow win from four starts since Christmas, the early season optimism has been fading badly.

Redditch had improved since their 43-6 defeat earlier in the season and the visitors just shaded a close weekend encounter.

In an uncompromising first half, Cleobury were able to draw first blood with a first try for promising right-wing Chris Bunn midway through the half.

Willie Bache's box kick from a scrum on halfway fell awkwardly and was hacked on by the flying Bunn who won the race to the line.

Confidence was boosted with Colin Smith's conversion but the home side were back on level terms by half-time.

After the break, Cleobury were able to restore their lead via the boot of Smith who kicked a penalty and then a second conversion.

Julian Harding managed his seventh try of the season after a quick breakaway.

At 17-7 with 10 minutes remaining, Cleobury should have been cruising but the home side clawed their way back with a penalty.

A desperate comeback saw them grab a dramatic try, leaving a crucial conversion from a difficult angle for Redditch to equal the scores.

But much to Cleobury's relief, the kick struck the bar and left them winners.