REDDITCH maintained their unbeaten start to the West Midlands Division One season as they secured a 1-1 draw at leaders Stafford on Saturday.
This was undoubtedly Redditch’s toughest game of the season so far as they faced the only other side with a 100 per cent record going into the game.
The result leaves both sides with ten points from four games, with Redditch sitting second on goal difference. The Kingfishers have no game this weekend and return to action on November 7 at Yardley, who are currently bottom.
Both sides tried to assert their authority on Saturday’s match and it was Redditch who struck first when central midfielder Jacob Beard threaded the ball through to Harry Capewell, whose push took a deflection off a Stafford defender and crept past the keeper to put the visitors ahead.
The Kingfishers continued to sustain the pressure and bossed possession throughout the first half, but Beard and Richard Sellors were both denied by the Stafford keeper.
Redditch began the second half as they ended the first with fast passing play and strong defending, but were unable to capitalise on chances and this allowed Stafford back into the game and a quick counter-attack led to the equaliser.
Stafford then took a grip on the game but Redditch keeper Ben Bryant had an answer for all of the hosts’ efforts to earn himself the man of the match award.
Redditch did threaten themselves through Pete Dawson and Dan Waite but both fired narrowly over the bar and the sides had to settle for a deserved point apiece.
REDDITCH 3rds were beaten 2-1 at unbeaten Old Wulfrunians in West Midlands Division One 3rd Team League.
This was Redditch’s first defeat of the campaign and, despite the loss, the youngsters showed big improvements as they dominated the game for large periods and were very unlucky to return empty-handed.
Fifth placed Redditch 3rds – just a point off top spot – host Stone on Saturday.
