SUPERIOR forward power proved the difference in Ludlow being outgunned by Evesham in the Midlands Senior Vase last Saturday.

Though they matched the visiting backs, the below-strength Linneymen fell short up front, though the final victory margin of 32-17 slightly flattered the well-drilled Midlands 3 West (South) side.

Full-back Will Sparrow converted his own try to give Ludlow an early seven-point lead, and then kicked a penalty, but Ludlow found themselves trailing 15-10 at the turnaround.

The deficit stretched further before Mark Williams went over for a second Ludlow try that Sparrow converted but Evesham had the final word with their fourth touchdown of the game to condemn Ludlow to their first defeat of the season.

Norman Stalker's side, with two wins from their opening two league games, resume their Midlands 3 West (North) programme this weekend when they travel into the Black Country to face Willenhall, who themselves boast a 100 per cent record from three matches.

The following Saturday, October 17, Ludlow face their first big local derby of the season at Cleobury Mortimer.

Cleobury’s cup tie with Ledbury was called off by their opponents last weekend and they have only played once so far this campaign, a 16-13 home defeat by Tamworth.