STOURBRIDGE suffered their fourth defeat of the season at Chester last Saturday.

Neil Mitchell's men lost 27-22 to leave them in six in the table.

Stour had lost two key players in the form of Hal Riley and Chad Thorne. Chris Scott and George Morgan were returning from illness and injury whilst the loss of Rickie Aley, Sam Montieri and Jack Lea did not help their cause during the match.

Chester kicked off with wind advantage and, in spite of some spirited play by the visitors, managed to get the first score through left wing Ross Craig after just four minutes.

They added another converted try on 12 minutes before Rickie Aley landed a penalty kick to drag it back to 12-3.

However, the hosts reinforced their dominance on 30 minutes when Stourbridge were penalised for a high tackle. Quick-tap penalty ball was sent to James Robins for a simple five points that he converted himself for a 19-3 lead.

Again, Stour did have their chances over the remaining playtime but even with an extra two minutes, were unable to capitalise on territory and possession.

Dressing room talk at half time obviously worked as Stour kicked off the second half with a renewed vigour and passion that saw some scintillating moves involving all seven backs, started by Joe Heatley and Mark Harrison.

That move was eventually held up over the line but with just eight minutes of the second half played, the visitors opted for a scrum penalty in front of the posts. Loose play from the back of the scrum set up replacement hooker Sam Wilkes to burst over for Stour’s first try. A simple Chris Scott conversion made it 19-10.

Chester edged ahead with a penalty before a Stour try from Dan Rundle levelled matters at 22-22.

The visitors had overcome a 16-point deficit but couldn't find the win.

Replacement Chester forward Matt Van Sertima was at the end of a 70 metre move that proved the difference.

Stour will look to hit back when they welcome Fylde to Stourton Park this Saturday.