Stratford made to pay for 'sloppy' first half

A SLOPPY first-half display saw a Stratford crash to a shock defeat at home to Whitchurch on Saturday.

The Black and Whites suffered defeat at Pearcecroft for the first time this season against a team that started the day in 12th.

Tom Rance’s side trailed 24-7 at half-time and despite a much-improved second half showing, Whitchurch held on for a surprise success.

“We were not at our best and we won’t accept that,” said director of rugby, Tom Rance.

“We didn’t stick to any game plan we had practised and left ourselves vulnerable.

"We were sloppy in areas where we’re normally so consistent.

"It was a disappointing day, especially as we were at home against a team we would expect to beat.”

Stratford’s points arrived through tries from Jack Young, Andy Conway and Sam Joyce, with Nath Geekie successfully converting all three.

Rance’s side head to Wolverhampton this Saturday, while the club’s 2nd XV host Leamington 2nds.