UPTON opened the New Year with a 10-9 win at near rivals Alcester in Midlands Five West (South).

Without a game for three weeks over the festive period it was always going to take time for both teams to get back into rhythm.

It was Upton who found their feet first and fly-half Mike Dodge hit a 30-metre penalty.

Upton were quick up in the tackle, rucked well and then spun the ball out.

The visitors increased their lead when the ball was passed out to Alex Pimlow on half way. He went on a power drive around the covering defenders before being squeezed into touch near the try-line.

However, he kicked the ball on and Chris O'Neil pounced to score under the posts. Dodge added the extras.

Upton continued to attack in the first-half but they were unable to turn their possession and territorial advantage into points.

Alcester came out of the blocks at the start of the second period and within a minute they had scored from a penalty.

It was Upton's turn to soak up the pressure and defend as Alcester frequently made ground with long diagonal kicks downfield with the wind.

Alcester had a try over-ruled out by the official but by the hour-mark they had converted two more penalties. But the visitors held on to their slender one-point lead for the remainder of the match.

This Saturday, Upton are without a league game so they travel to Bromyard to play a friendly match.