Bletcher hails KCs togetherness after win (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Bletcher hails KCs togetherness after win

8:00am Friday 21st December 2012 in Local

HEAD coach Ian Bletcher hailed his players for adhering to the club’s core values as Kidderminster Carolians saw off Shipston-on-Stour 27-19 to record a bonus point win in the Midlands Two West (South).

The Marlpool Lane outfit recovered from a stirring start by the hosts to keep the pressure on the top-three.

Bletcher believes KCs’ spirit and camaraderie were vital on Saturday.

He said: “I was so pleased with the win because this game was a potential banana skin.

“Shipston are a good team, they’ve got a strong pack and some players who can carry the ball.

“But it was a great display by us, we stuck to our club ethos of togetherness and support.

“The referee was fantastic, he allowed us to play our game and I also have a lot of praise for Matt Rigsby.

“He had a tough time and was substituted in the first-half but he vocally supported the lads from the touch-line, brought on drinks and I genuinely believe that made a difference.”

Andy McLellan’s penalty opened the scoring but Shipston powered into a 12-3 lead.

Arthur Chiverton bulldozed over for a try, converted by McLellan, before Chris Pinner left the home defence in his wake as he race in from 60 yards to touch down.

Mike Protherough scored KCs’ fourth try and despite Shipston pulling one back, they made sure of the win.

KCs end the league for this year at Newbold-on-Avon on Saturday (2.15pm start).

Bletcher added: “Chris Pinner’s try was absolutely brilliant, he had three people chasing him but he raced away.

“We’ve got another tough game at Newbold and I just hope there’s enough water in the well for one more game.”

KCs will have to shuffle their pack as Chris and Alex Baldwin are unavailable.