STOURPORT'S three teams recorded a clean sweep in their first league fixtures at Five Ways, including a fine 18-11 success for the firsts.

The town side are just two points behind leaders Ledbury in North Midlands One with two games in hand and face a tough clash with Bishop's Castle on Saturday.

Stourport were forced to make six changes at the weekend but showed the depth and versatility of their squad by fielding an experienced team.

The forwards fought out a close battle on a heavy pitch but the visitors scored first when skipper Richard Dorrell hit a penalty from outside the 22 metre line.

Stourport had a try disallowed when a pop pass to Dorrell, after good work from winger Chris Way and full-back John Malins, was adjudged to be forward.

Five Ways drove forward well and forced a penalty from Stourport which they kicked to draw the scores level.

As the changed Stourport pack settled, they gained the measure of the home side, resulting in the first try, a drive from a 5m line-out, grounded by prop Julian Farmer and converted by Dorrell.

The second half was played in a similar pattern as the heavy wet pitch made running and handling difficult.

Stourport increased their lead through a Dorrell penalty and a try from outstanding flanker Victor Little.

However, Five Ways were never out of a close match and when they scored a try with 20 minutes to go, it set up a close and thrilling finale.

Despite a late home penalty, Stourport held out and Little was unlucky not to add to his tally.

Fixture, Saturday: Stourport 1sts v Bishop's Castle.