FOLLOWING encouraging signs of improvement over the last month, this was the best performance by the Upton second XV this season.

UPTON II 43PTS, WOODRUSH II 29PTS

Where in previous weeks either the backs or forwards have performed well, this week both were to work seamlessly in unison to put a strong Woodrush team on the back-foot from the off.

With barely five minutes on the clock, Upton won one of what was to be half a dozen scrums against the head in the Woodrush 22, enabling Upton scrum-half Hallett to break. He was dragged down just short of the line, only for No 8 Paul Williams to collect the ball and touch down for five points.

From the following kick-off Upton collected the ball and proceeded to charge down field, Hunt and Breakwell feeding Thomson who set up a maul ten yards from the visitors' line.

Quick ball from Daniell again fed Williams, this time at speed and unstoppable. Converted by Reeve.

Woodrush now began to show their character. Utilising their swift back row and centres, they decided the forward battle was not for them and started throwing the ball around in a seven's manner, and it suited them well.

In the next 12 minutes this style of 'high risk' rugby, whilst giving Upton counter attacking opportunities, got the visitors back in the game, levelling the scores with two tries at 12-12.

It was for Matt Stone to get Upton back in front with a trademark weaving run through the Woodrush midfield, outpacing the full-back to score in the corner.

Upton held the lead until the half-time break but realised they needed to tighten up and play their own game in the next 40 minutes.

The second-half started as the first had, Upton taking control through the forwards, Caulkan and Jones driving strongly, interlinking with Wood and the rejuvenated John Fischer.

Dominant in set plays, hooker Steve Fisher accuracy personified in the line-outs. Upton were able to take a ball against the head for Upton to feed the back-line, allowing Lewis the space he needed to get on the scoresheet.

Woodrush fought back with two quick tries but Upton again found their stride and scored twice more, through Fischer and Stone, to put the game safe.

ShandyBass man of the match was Russ Broadbent.

An excellent game, but Upton will need to keep their discipline to achieve a result against tomorrow's (Saturday) visitors Worcester Wanderers.