AFTER a two-week break from league rugby Upton entertained joint league leaders Cleobury Mortimer in North Midlands One South.

UPTON 1ST XV 24pts, CLEOBURY MORTIMER 5pts

On a cold, damp but still day Upton fielded their strongest possible side although long-term injuries to Jerry Wheeler and Barry Lancett still leave the side short of depth up front.

Cleobury, who like Upton are a traditional forwards side, could not cope with the new found excitement that is being wielded by the back line and within two minutes found themselves 7-0 down.

A pass by Heeley was regathered by number 8 Wynn. He popped the ball back to inside centre Heeley, who made amends by putting away the pacey Pimlow. He ran 20 yards before drawing the last man and right-winger O'Neil finished the move off. Heeley converted.

Upton continued at their very fast pace and five minutes later from a scrambled line-out fly-half Mark Tether went blind and found Matt Bookham in support. His strength saw him go through three tackles and touch down.

Cleobury came back at Upton with their strong pack but their backs could not penetrate the midfield defence of Heeley and Brad Raymond. However, they did get a penalty but missed their opportunity to narrow the score line.

Upton regained their composure and were soon back near the visitor's line. From a series of rolling mauls and rucks Bookham again charged towards the line, but after being tackled short popped the ball to Raymond who scored for 17-0.

As the half-time whistle blew Upton sensed the game was in the bag and unfortunately took their foot off the pedal in the second half. Cleobury dominated the first 20 minutes but again huge defence by the home side kept them out.

From another attack in the Upton half Raymond made a crunching tackle and the spilled ball was hacked up field by full back Pimlow. After a couple of stabs forward the young 15 gathered the ball but was tackled short of line. Once again Brad Raymond was in support to take the pass and score. Heeley converted for 24-0.

Upton knew the game was theirs but will be disappointed that they allowed the visitors a late consolation try in the corner and will have to be more focused for the league visit tomorrow (Saturday) of Birmingham Civil Service.

Upton coach Ron Hobbs said: "Brad Raymond's fitness had been in question but he has worked hard in training and now concentrates more on the product than the style, which is nice."

Man of the match was Melvin Hill.