IT was a hugely successful day both on and off the pitch for Shipston on Stour last weekend.

Over 500 people packed into Mayo Road to watch the main event, the first team taking on local rivals Stratford Upon Avon in what was the first league meeting between the two sides in over 20 years.

The day began with ninety-six people at the Vice President’s Day lunch, where ex-players and sponsors attended, along with guests from Stratford RFC.

Shipston President Richard Spencer thanked the support from the Shipston community and mentioned the large amount of travelling away support Shipston RFC is lucky to have.

The 1XV began their Regional 2 Midlands West clash defending up the hill from a Stratford team who came out of the blocks firing on all cylinders. Stratford had 90% of possession throughout the first half coming downhill, but were met with a fierce Shipston defence.

But the visitors did eventually find a way through just before half-time as a well-worked try saw them take a 7-0 lead into the sheds.

With the hosts now attacking down the slope, they set about their work straight away and captain Robbie Faulkner soon made his first visit over the Stratford line try by scoring Shipston’s opening try of the afternoon, converted by Rob James to level the score at 7-7.

Shipston showed real composure and were very clinical when scoring opportunities came their way. Captain Faulkner scored a second try and his brother Tobi also got on the score sheet before Adam Lane wrapped up the bonus-point.

Scoring twenty-four unanswered points, Shipston secured the maximum five-point win that brings them to within three points of their rivals in the table. Shipston sit ninth with 40 points whilst Stratford are two places higher with 43.

But it was not just the 1XV on show as the 2s were in action against Barkers Butt 2s.

It was not quite as competitive as the game on the first-team pitch as Shipston ran riot in a thumping 81-0 victory.

The plethora of tries were scored by: Cam Mahler (3) Tom Beasley, Matt Bason, Jack Bartlett (2), Harry Brendon (2), Sam James, Huwie Williams, Harry Hutchings (2). Conversions from Sam James (5) and James Blake (3).