Fine line in Stour success

Stourbridge coach Neil Mitchell said at the start of his side's National League Two campaign that there would be a fine dividing line between success and failure in the third tier of the country's rugby pyramid – and so it has proved.

Tight wins at Southend, Westcombe Park and now Otley have launched his side to second in the table with a game in hand rather than seeing them sitting frustratingly in mid-table.

But it is not coincidence that Mitchell's side has come out on the right end of the close encounters.

For the endeavour that Stour have shown so far this season they deserve every slice of luck that has come their way.

Sure there was some luck on Saturday; not least a missed Otley penalty in the last minute, but they were just rewards for moments of brilliance.

Fly-half Sam Robinson showed glimpses of his ability and it was his finesse that hauled Stour back from two tries down.

His exquisite chip was collected by the evergreen Marcus Cook, who crossed for a converted try on the half hour, before his well-timed drop goal complemented a brace of Bressington penalties and allowed his side the luxury of a six point advantage at the break.

The lead was short-lived and, after another incisive Otley backs move had left the Stour defence in tatters, Neil Mitchell rung the changes.

Ben Hughes replaced Simon Homer followed by Carl Taylor, coming on for Paul Coles. Jordan Page replaced Ben Gerry at hooker who went to open side flanker instead of Tom Jordan.

But it was Robinson who once again provided the magic to prise open a resolute and determined Otley, protecting a proud home record.

Another fine chip was expertly gathered Jon Hall, playing a club record 188th game, to cross.

Stour then relied heavily on their spirit to see them through.