Sat 13 Sep 2025
Earlsdon RFC claimed a famous 22–21 win away at Ledbury on Saturday – their first ever victory against the Herefordshire side – in a pulsating contest that went right down to the wire.
The visitors made a strong start, controlling possession and applying pressure with patience and discipline. Their efforts were rewarded with two well-earned penalties, including a superb strike from 45 metres out by Jack Haywood. Ledbury hit back with a direct and aggressive try under the posts, starting to get a foothold in the game, but some smart game management from Earlsdon kept them at bay. Another penalty pushed the away side back in front, only for Ledbury to capitalise on errors and regain control. With the physical battle taking its toll and all replacements used early, Earlsdon reached half-time trailing 14–9.
The second half began with the same intensity as both sides fought for breakthroughs. Earlsdon fronted up courageously against the big Ledbury pack, though the home side looked the more likely to score. Then came a moment of brilliance: Will Haywood burst from 35 metres out, surged down the wing, beat three defenders and crashed over in the corner for a stunning try. Ledbury, however, responded with relentless pressure and powered over again to move 21–14 ahead.
Earlsdon refused to fold. A penalty from Tague cut the deficit to four points, setting up a nail-biting final ten minutes. With yellow cards punctuating the contest, the visitors had to dig deep, particularly at the scrum. As the clock ticked down, Earlsdon won a crucial penalty and kicked to the corner. The lineout was lost, but they showed incredible determination to regain possession and launch wave after wave of attack. Eventually, the ball was worked wide to Georgie Banson on the wing, who powered over the line to spark jubilation.
With just two minutes remaining, Earlsdon clung on through Ledbury’s desperate final assaults, defending with everything they had until the whistle confirmed a remarkable 22–21 triumph.
Coach Jon Fitt praised his players afterwards: “The character and determination the squad showed today was outstanding. It just shows how far we’ve come as a club to win matches like this.”
This victory will go down as a landmark moment in Earlsdon’s history – proof of the resilience, spirit and progress that continues to drive the team forward.
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