SKIPPER James Shewell hopes Droitwich can push on from their Midlands Two West (South) opening day victory over Old Yardleians.
After losing 29-26 to Whitchurch in the North Midlands Shield a fortnight ago, last season’s ‘Invincible’ Midlands Three West (South) champions got their new league campaign off to a flying start on Saturday.
The first-half closed with Droitwich having scored five unanswered tries from Charlie Yip (2), Pete Knight, Mark Strutt and Sam O’Brien, with four of them converted by Bobby Scott-Walker.
After the break Yardleians converted a try and kicked a penalty before tries from Ruben Staite (2), Luke Topping, Strutt, Brad Smith and Matt Barnes, as well as five conversions from Nat Maginnis, completed the 73-10 rout.
“It was a better performance than what I expected,” said Shewell.
“We were expecting a tougher test but we broke them down and once that happened the flood gates opened.
“I am still a little bit frustrated that we conceded the one try but defensively we starved Old Yardleians of the ball.
“It’s great to have got off to a good start. Last season we enjoyed teams chasing us and if we can replicate that this year we are going to enjoy this season even more.”
After being given a bye in the North Midlands RFU Intermediate Cup, Droitwich have arranged a friendly at Kidderminster Carolians on Saturday.
Kidderminster ply their trade in Midlands Two West (North) and Shewell is looking forward to the test.
“We have not played Kidderminster for a long time so we are looking forward to renewing an old rivalry,” Shewell said.
“It provides us an opportunity to rotate the squad and keep the intensity going before our next league game at Silhillians the following weekend.”
