STRATFORD-upon-Avon RFC exited the Papa John’s Cup at the first round stage following a 45-3 defeat against Lutterworth.
Dan Whitby kicked Stratford’s only points as a mixed squad of 22 players worked tirelessly in defeat despite the final scoreline at Ashby Lane.
Stratford handed starting debuts to Chay Pusey and Zak Hammersley while Rory Webb and Ollie Pearson featured on a seven-man bench.
However, Lutterworth’s powerful running and dominance at the scrum saw the home side score three tries in the opening 15 minutes.
Lutterworth added their fourth try later in the half before Whitby opted to kick at goal after Stratford won a penalty in front of the posts in what would prove the away side’s only points of the contest.
Stratford showed spirit after the break but were unable to score a try as Lutterworth ran in three more tries of their own to seal their place in the next round.
