Bewdley Town's fifth game of the season was another hard-fought affair but ended in a 69-0 North Midlands Three defeat at Essington.

The pitch was not on Bewdley's side and from the kick off both packs struggled to gain grip, leading to a very stop start game.

Essington adapted to the conditions easier and started to pass the ball wide but the Bewdley wingers were aware of the ploy and defended well.

It was not long, however, before Essington put themselves ahead using good angles for the backs to create holes and score.

Bewdley tried to pressure the Essington midfield but in doing so created gaps which their opponents took full advantage of.

Bewdley's best chances fell to a couple of opportunist breaks by captain Chris Ellis and Alan Banks.

All this was to no avail as Essington kept putting on points without reply.

Bewdley again played with a lot of heart but are looking at a long and tough first season at the competitive level.

Fixture, Saturday: Kings Norton v Bewdley (Friendly, 2pm).