Excellent interpretation of the challenge! When I go through and comment on our entries, I try to guess the score prior to looking to see what it was - I guessed 5.7 on this one. I'd say that's a lot closer to what it should be.
I agree it might be better if not cropped as tightly. I'd like to see a bit more of the surroundings. I think it's because you have caught such nice light in the leaves that I want more tree.