YOUTHFUL North East Worcestershire Ravens suffered a harsh lesson as they crashed to a 98-4 defeat to Midlands Premier rivals Coventry Dragons last Saturday.

Last week’s 20-strong squad was reduced to a 14-man team for another difficult away game.

Ravens knew this was always an unlikely task but a young and enthusiastic side went to see what they could do against the vastly-experienced Dragons.

The away team conceded early in the third and sixth minutes before putting in a strong defence for the next 10 minutes.

Eventually Ravens fought back and crossed the line in the corner for Jake Harley-Yeadon’s first ever Ravens try, after only making his debut last weekend. The conversion was narrowly missed but the four points motivated the hosts to move forward. Ravens then struggled to cope with the barrage of tries which followed.

Worcestershire never gave up but found it impossible to repel the aggressive and brutal attack of the ruthless Dragons.

Coach Jason Spafford said: “This was a learning game for many of the young Ravens and a hard lesson it was.

“They all stood up against what was a far superior side and emerged with only dented pride.”

Ravens hope to move onward and upward to one of their target games next week — away against Telford Raiders.

Anyone who would like more information on how to get involved can visit: www.newravensrl.co.uk