Alcester 3 Spartans 6

Alcester slumped to their second successive home league defeat after a narrow loss in a dour contest at King's Coughton.

The match was played in near darkness near the end and the fading light seemed to affect both sides, who both struggled to get going.

The game started slowly, with neither side able to control the ball for long periods.

Alcester were having the better of the line out play with Pat Lamb dominant.

Spartans strayed offside after Mark Kilbride broke free and skipper Matt Gwynn slotted over a penalty to give Alcester the lead.

Gwynn's trickery in close quarters looked the most likely route for Alcester but the hosts conceded the first of several penalties within kickable distance and Spartans levelled.

The visitors returned the compliment moments later, illegally entering a ruck from the side, but Gwynn was wide with the kick.

The Spartans' number eight was sin binned for a late tackle on Robbie Parker before the break but Alcester failed to use the man advantage and when he returned after the break, another unnecessary penalty conceded by the home side allowed Spartans to take the lead.

Spartans looked most likely to score the opening try as Alcester struggled to find any rhythm, but desperate defence by the hosts in a two minute spell near their own line kept the visitors at bay.

Alcester conceded another penalty but the kick struck the upright.

Poor handling in the backs throughout the game restricted Alcester's chances and when they did receive it cleanly, they were often ten or fifteen yards behind the gain line.

Spartans claimed the victory, despite missing another penalty near the end.