A depleted Ledbury suffered a frustrating 29-10 home defeat to Edwardians.

The match, taking place at Ross Road, saw Ledbury fielding a much-changed team due to injuries and availability issues.

Despite tries from Arron Almond and Ben Mason for the hosts, two tries from Edwardians' Kieran Hughes, as well as scores from Joey Heatley, Jack Lea and Brandon Lee put the game well beyond Ledbury's reach.

Read more: Ledbury Firsts defeated by strong Shipston on Sour side

Despite the team sheet hurdles, Ledbury started strong, advancing deep into Edwardians' territory.

However, an intercepted pass by Edwardians' centre Hughes resulted in a 70-metre run and score, putting the visitors ahead.

Ledbury responded quickly, with Almond scoring from a lineout after a penalty against Edwardians.

The conversion went wide, leaving the score at 7-5.

Edwardians then extended their lead, with centre Heatley scoring in the corner after winning a scrum.

The Ledbury defence struggled to contain the speedy Edwardians, allowing Hughes to score again.

As the deficit extended Ledbury captain, Harry Harris, urged his team to tighten their defence and improve ball retention.

The pep talk seemed to work, as Ledbury took the game back to Edwardians, finishing the first half with a try from Mason, bringing the score to 17-10.

The second half saw Ledbury playing with more confidence, as Edwardians' discipline wobbled, resulting in numerous penalties.

Ledbury came close to drawing level several times but were unable to capitalise on their opportunities.

A body check by Ledbury resulted in a penalty for Edwardians, which was kicked to the corner.

Edwardians' Lea then scored from close range, putting the match out of Ledbury's reach.

Minutes later, Edwardians' fly half Lee found space to score another try, sealing the match at 29-10.

Despite the loss, Ledbury showed steady progress, with the forwards keeping the team in contention throughout.

Newcomers Ben Yeo and Dom Seaborn, who played in the Colts last season, made their mark on their debuts in the second half.

Looking ahead, Ledbury will be raring to go for a derby clash with Hereford at home on Saturday (September 28) at 3pm.

Both teams are at the tail end of the league, making this a must-win match for both sides.