LUDLOW ended their miserable run of form in Midlands Two West (North) with a thrilling 39-39 draw at Walsall.

And the Shropshire side would have been celebrating a win had their hosts not managed to grab a late try – the tenth of the game – to tie the scores.

Walsall, playing with a strong wind at their backs, opened up a 10-0 lead inside 15 minutes before the visitors started to ask a few questions.

Will Sparrow chalked up Ludlow’s first points with a penalty and then scored an impressive 50-metre try which he also converted.

Mark Williams then scored a try in the corner only for Walsall to finish the half with a converted effort to go in 17-15 at the break.

An early Sparrow penalty restored Ludlow’s advantage at the start of the second half before three tries looked to half wrapped up the win.

Williams and full-back Joe Doyle efforts were converted by Sparrow who then intercepted a try and ran 70 metres to the line.

It meant the visitors were 19 points clear going into the final 15 minutes but Walsall clawed their way back and managed to salvage a draw when their no8 was driven over near the corner flag.

League neighbours Cleobury Mortimer picked up their first win of the season as they beat Leek 17-10.

A try in each half from back row Tom Leach helped them on their way while winger Josh Winfield added a third with Hatden Edwards kicking a conversion.

This weekend sees the derby match at the Linney when Ludlow take on Cleobury Mortimer.

Elsewhere, Bishop's Castle edged their way to a 39-36 win at Gnosall in Midlands Five West (North) but there was disappointment for Church Stretton who lost 70-7 at Bloxwich in Midlands Four West (North).