IN need of match practice before the resumption of league duties next week, Upton took on Bredon in a friendly on Saturday.

UPTON RFC 29pts, BREDON 17pts

As Bredon were unable to field a 'competent' front row this meant that the uncontested scrum ruling would be used (ie: who ever puts in the ball at the set scrum has to win it without any pressure or hassle from the opposition) so Upton first XV decided to 'blood' some younger players and play others out of position whilst the second XV went to play a 'normal' game at Bredon.

It was obvious from the first few minutes that Bredon's speedy backs were going to have a big say in matters if allowed to get the ball. Winger Campbell scored for Bredon after five minutes after a chip and chase, Wilks converted from in front of the posts to take the score to 0-7.

Upton drove on from the restart when the forwards kept it tight right up to the line where flanker Neil Caldwell broke off and scored from which Skipper Rob Heeley converted to level at 7-7.

With the large band of supporters roaring on their team on a cold afternoon, Upton duly rewarded the encouragement after 20 minutes when flanker Ben Penson showed how to score from a tapped penalty move and Upton moved ahead to 12-7.

Just before half time Bredon levelled the scores when lock Meadows touched down following neat approach work by the back division and then a switch in direction of play.

Following coach Ronnie Hobbs' instruction to keep the ball even tighter, Upton started the second half with a flourish and drove right up to the Bredon line but somehow the ball went loose. Bredon retrieved, spread it wide to their left winger who made progress to Upton's 22. The defence finally closed him down but not before a pass was thrown inside to Wilks who raced on to score under the posts but he was unable to convert. Again Bredon took the lead to 12- 17.

The pressure was now on Upton to take the game and this they did by keeping to their original plan of keeping it tight, drive on, roll round and drive on again.

This they did with aplomb, even overcoming Bredon's attempts to illegally collapse the maul, and prop Ben Leeke was twice lucky enough to be the one in contact with the ball as it crossed the line. Upton moved ahead 22-17.

Bredon tried to get back on even terms and took every opportunity to spread the ball out to the ever dangerous back division but Upton's defence held firm and from one of Bredon's attacks, Caldwell read the situation to perfection when he intercepted and raced clear to score his second try near the posts for Heeley to convert and make the game safe at 29-17.

This result brings is a bit good cheer for new year and hopefully man of the match Matt Bookham can give another inspiring performance tomorrow (Saturday) when Upton welcome Old Griffinians in a league match.

League points are urgently needed by Upton to avoid trouble during league restructuring at the end of the season.