DIXONIANS 3 SPARTANS 23

SPARTANS secured five valuable league points with a bonus point win against a robust Dixonians side in their latest round of league action.

Played at Birmingham Solihull RFC, Spartans started brightly and went ahead after six minutes when winger Terry Garbett threaded a kick between the home defence for James Gibbons to pounce on and score.

Dixonians were quick to respond and bagged a penalty before the break to go into half time trailing 5-3.

After the break, Spartans took control and some excellent work from the back row allowed Gibbons to race away for his second try of the day.

Moments later, flanker Stuart Smith showed his class to release the ever youthful Michael Thompson for his first try of the season, and suddenly Spartans were riding high. To their credit, Dixonians came back strongly, but were met by strong defence as Spartans' collective determination cancelled out individual flair.

The introduction of teenage debutant Adam Clark helped keep Dixonians at bay and, in the gathering gloom, young Joe Lucas claimed the bonus point try.

In the final moments, Lucas also added a penalty to secure the win.

This week, Spartans face another huge test of character against nearby Burntwood at Coppice Lane (2.15pm).

Spartans thirds lost 29-19 to Handsworth, while the fourths lost 25-0 to Old Yardleians.

Spartans under-17s lost 15-7 to Kidderminster.