LEDBURY Rugby Club put in another fine performance to record a 25-15 bonus-point win at mid-table Manor Park in Midlands Three West (South).

With leaders Pinley losing 30-27 at home to Southam, third-placed Ledbury are now just six points behind with a game in hand.

The Ross Road team have five matches left and, with away fixtures against the sides in first and second, promotion prospects are in their own hands.

Ledbury took an early lead when winger Ben Smith scored and, although the hosts soon hit back with a penalty, the visitors went on to dominate the first-half. A second try from Smith along with a penalty and conversion plus centre Rob Anscomb diving over saw Ledbury establish a commanding position with a lead of 20-3.

At this stage, a comprehensive victory seemed on the cards but Manor Park hit back with an unconverted try at the end of the first period.

When they scored a converted try at the beginning of the second, the gap was reduced to only five points.

It was at this crucial phase of the game when Ledbury showed the skill, fitness and composure which have been increasingly evident over the season.

As usual, the scrum and line-out proved to be a constant source of possession in attack and defence.

Despite the best efforts of a strong, committed home side, Ledbury created numerous chances to increase their lead.

Skipper Jock Welch registered the try which secured the bonus point and the victory.