Wolves Wizards 76

Redditch Ravens 6

The Ravens' first match in the Total RL Conference ended in a heavy defeat.

But the inexperienced visitors, some of whom were playing their first competitive game of rugby league, were not disgraced against a large and powerful Wizards pack.

Wolverhampton scored two tries in the opening ten minutes but after recovering from such a daunting start, the Ravens began to use their possession more effectively, making steady progress up the field.

And this finally paid dividends when, after a superb set of carries by the forwards, veteran scrum half Jason Spafford darted over the line for a

Ravens score, Gareth Thomas kicking the conversion.

Redditch continued to win their share of possession for the remainder of the half but were undone by the huge Wizards forwards.

The second half saw the Ravens take the game to Wolverhampton and had a number of attacks held up just short of the line.

Unfortunately, the Wizards took advantage of tiring Ravens and ran in a number of tries in the second half to make the final score 76-6.

Among the Ravens to stand out were stand off Thomas, whose kicking game grew in

confidence as the match went on, and props Richard Short and captain Mark Laishley whose running set up a good platform for the backs to show their pace. Coach Spafford was man of the match.

Redditch Ravens are in action again this weekend when they play their first game at Studley FC's Birmingham Road ground - a league clash with Bristol Sonics (ko 2.30pm) that will also be the debut of the cheerleaders - The Ravenettes.

For anyone wanting to try rugby league, visit one of the training sessions on Wednesday from 7.30pm at Studley FC.