CENTRE Tommy Hayes scored a consolation try as Pershore fell 21-7 at fellow high-fliers Old Wheatleyans in Midlands Three West (South).

Missing forwards Luke Hardiman and Martin Hope, Pershore looked to blow away the cobwebs after the Christmas break.

They played into a gale and low sun, defending well against a direct style, and were unlucky to be 7-0 down at half-time to a converted try.

But the conditions changed for Pershore in the second period and Old Wheats’ running broke down a resolute defence for a second try.

The visitors struck through Hayes and Lewis Dolphin’s conversion but the game went to uncontested scrums, which suited Old Wheats.

A third converted try ensured Pershore, who visit leaders Woodrush on Saturday, left with no points.

Meanwhile, Evesham beat Stoke Old Boys 18-10 in Midlands Four West (South) but Bredon Star lost 45-21 at Chipping Sodbury in Gloucester Division One.