STRUGGLING Evesham Rugby Club slipped into the drop zone after a narrow defeat at top-six Midlands Two West (South) opponents Leamington.

With several players out of position due to a lack of available forwards, the Vale side went close to victory but had to settle for a precious losing bonus point following a 17-14 loss.

Evesham took a while to settle into the game, allowing Leamington to feed off their mistakes.

The hosts scored two unconverted tries in the first half but Evesham hit back with a try for Will Bugg converted by Tom Williams to trail 10-7 at the break.

Leamington scored again early in the second period before Evesham began to take more control of the game.

However, despite enjoying the lion’s share of possession Evesham could only register a second score for Bugg which was again converted by Williams.

The defeat sees Evesham sink to 11th place and into the relegation zone as fellow strugglers Spartans jumped above them courtesy of a surprise 29-26 victory at Old Laurentians.

Evesham will face next Old Laurentians on Saturday, March 21, following a week’s rest.

Mid-table Pershore held title-chasing hosts Old Wheatleyans to a 26-26 draw in Midlands Four West (South).

They entertain Bromyard on Saturday.

Bredon Star went up to fifth in Wadworth Gloucestershire Two North with a 24-0 home win over Minchinhampton.

Star head to Cheltenham Civil Service in third on Saturday.