Redditch 3, Manor Park 10

REDDITCH hosted the Midlands Division Four West (South) leaders Manor Park in an amazing encounter for both teams at Bromsgrove Road.

The Kingfishers did well to restrict the normally high-scoring and unbeaten visitors.

Redditch knew this would be a tough day and coach James Shotbolt wanted a performance that would lift the side for the rest of the season.

Redditch defended like lions and frustrated Manor Park in all areas.

Both teams attacked well and penetrated both defensive lines but the host’s tackling dominated.

Bryn Williams missed an early penalty as the first half ended scoreless.

But Redditch edged ahead when Williams put away the penalty.

The away side levelled with a kick of their own.

The hosts defended solidly but in the game’s dying moments Manor Park worked an attack out wide and scored under the post.

The effort was converted, sealing a narrow defeat for Redditch.

Tom Hodge was man of the match with outstanding displays from James Mills, Mark Green and Phil Goddard.

Redditch have a friendly against Dudley Kingswinford seconds on Saturday.