PERSHORE Rugby Club lifted their first piece of silverware in 40 years with an impressive 26-11 victory against Old Yardleians in the North Midlands Vase final.
The Piddle Park club scored tries in either half through Damien May and Stef Ellis whilst Ben Crouch enjoyed a perfect afternoon from the kicking tee to register 16 points at Worcester Rugby Club.
Pershore dominated from the outset and defended stoutly to limit their opponents in the opening exchanges.
However, Old Yardleians scored the game’s first points with a penalty following a Pershore infringement.
Pershore responded soon after as prop May drove over the line to score the first try of the match with the score converted by Crouch.
A further penalty apiece sent Pershore into the break with a narrow 13-6 lead.
And Pershore continued to dominate the game in the second half as Ellis and Will Humphreys looked dangerous in attack whilst the back row of Dan Mayfield, Greg Hitchcock and Jack Bacciocchi defended ferociously.
Crouch’s third penalty of the game further extended Pershore’s lead before Ellis sniped in under the posts following a period of sustained pressure and the former converted.
Pershore unloaded their bench after the hour mark as experienced heads Martin Hope, Brian Ranns and Jameson Lane aided the hard work of Josh Hardiman, Ben Sidney and Loran Abbotts.
And Pershore’s combinations of AJ Hanson, Tommy Hayes and Todd Charlton at halfback helped steady the ship when Old Yardleians threatened.
Crouch crowned a stellar performance with the boot when he kicked another penalty as the half wore on as youngsters Harry Dodds, Harry Westby, Stef Staveley and Reece Davis along with Takunda Kahwa kept Pershore in command.
Old Yardleians scored a consolation try at the death but it proved too little too late as Pershore captain Luke Hardiman lifted the trophy to the delight of his teammates and supporters.
