LEDBURY under 17s emerged on top in their closest North Midlands League fixture of the season so far.

The Ross Road teenagers triumphed 15-11 at Stretton Samurais with tries from Ellis Ward (2) and George Barrell.

Ledbury’s first league away match saw them tested by a new Shropshire side formed from Shrewsbury exiles.

The flow was stop-start at best as Samurais exerted early pressure, forcing their visitors into various avoidable infringements.

But Ledbury edged the scrums and line-outs while exploiting overlaps during open play.

Timely passes from Rory Bateson freed Ward to run in two fine winger’s tries.

The touchdowns out wide made for difficult conversions, although Dan Smith went agonisingly close to adding extra points. Ledbury’s other winger Stu Martin also made fine runs and tried a chip-and-chase with Rob Law-Eadie, which was stifled by strong close-range defending.

With Ledbury 10-3 up at half-time, Stretton then enjoyed the slope and wind advantage in the second period.

They took advantage by moving a point in front with a well-worked try and a penalty.

After injuries and with the need for fresh legs, Ledbury’s replacements all had their chance to influence the run of play.

Barrell ran in from full-back to link with Bateson, now at outside-centre, and regained the lead with a winning try 10 minutes from time.

Ledbury entertain Dudley Kingswinford on Sunday.