Tenbury's Jack Brain stars in opening-day victory over Cannock (From Ludlow Advertiser)

Tenbury's Jack Brain stars in opening-day victory over Cannock

8:00am Thursday 13th September 2012 in Sport

Tenbury 20 pts Cannock 17.

SKIPPER Pete Stevens says a tough-tackling display from debutant Jack Brain proved crucial in Tenbury Rugby Club’s opening-day triumph.

Stevens believes Brain’s brave performance kept Tenbury in the match as they fought back from 17-13 down to seal a thrilling win in Midlands Four West (North). Richard Wozencroft danced his way through to score and then Will Gough landed a touchline conversion to send the home crowd into raptures.

“It was backs-to-the-wall for the last five minutes but tremendous tackling kept out Cannock,” admitted Stevens.

“We were pretty relieved to hear the final whistle.

“Flanker Jack Brain, a Bromsgrove lad, played his first game for us and he was the man-of-the-match.

“He was brilliant and his superb tackling kept us in the game.”

Tenbury conceded a converted try after just five minutes of Saturday’s curtain-raiser.

But Wozencoft replied for the hosts, scoring Tenbury’s first try of the campaign.

Gough kicked a penalty to fire Tenbury 8-7 in front at the break, following fine play by Pete Foster.

Winger Brett Haywood then scored in the corner to put Tenbury 13-7 in front but Cannock bagged two quick-fire tries to put the hosts under pressure.

“The boys fought back and tackled really hard,” said Stevens. “Cannock have a strong pack and it was a cracking win for us. It was a great feeling afterwards.”

The Palmer’s Meadow men make the short trip to local rivals Bishop’s Castle this Saturday.

“We know all about Bishop’s Castle and we always have close matches against them,” said Stevens, “It won’t be easy but we have definitely got a very strong side for Saturday’s match.”

l For this weekend’s rugby union fixtures, turn to page 38.