REDDITCH remain rooted to the bottom of Midlands 4 West South despite producing a commendable display against Coventrians but just missed out with an agonisingly close 18-17 reverse.

That was after Redditch had started like a house on fire with fly-half James Widdop pulling the strings before sending Mark Green scurrying over to score, Widdop added the conversion.

Coventrians hit straight back when their No.8, who'd proved a real danger throughout, forced his way past several flailing arms to score a converted try.

Redditch conceded a penalty to go 10-7 behind but then had a try ruled out when Phil Harding was judged to have put his foot into touch while in the act of scoring.

The arrival of Josh Kearney enabled Redditch to restore their lead, Kearney scoring with his first touch of the ball after cutting a decisive line to score - but crucially the conversion failed.

A third Redditch try soon followed when Widdop produced a driving run before offloading to Nathan Marthews, who in turn fed Dave Ingram to finish off the move.

Redditch's 17-10 lead didn't last long. Despite repelling a five metre scrum and the threat of a pushover try, Coventrians still managed to produce quick ball for their blindside winger to score.

Coventrians clinched victory with a 40-metre penalty which was kicked into the wind to leave Redditch with the scant consolation of a losing bonus point when they needed more.

Although not doomed yet, Redditch have a mountain to climb if they are to avoid relegation.

They are back in action on Saturday when they travel to Hereford-based Greyhound, who are also struggling this season.