BANBURY had to work hard to see off relegated Upton-on-Severn 28-5 in Midlands 2 West (South).

Full back David Taylor made the breakthrough with a try converted by Peter Papenfus, and further converted tries followed before half-time from Chris Phillips and Jed Boyle.

Upton continued to harry the Bulls into errors, dominating both possession and territory and were rewarded with a try in the corner.

However, a counter-attack from deep in their own half led to a second try for Phillips, which was converted by the reliable boot of Papenfus to make the game safe and secure a bonus point. Even with the game lost, Upton continued to press, but determined defence kept them out.