REDDITCH maintained their 100 per cent record on Saturday whilst ending that of their hosts Oswestry with a 4-3 victory to make it three wins from as many West Midlands Division One games.
However, the Kingfishers certainly did it the hard way against their tough opponents who raced into a 2-0 lead inside the opening quarter of the game.
However, as half time approached, Redditch began to play some better hockey and a long ball from defender Adrian Young found captain Pete Dawson at the top of the D and he turned and fired home to make it 2-1.
Redditch carried the momentum into the second half as Jacob Beard and Daniel Jakeman worked hard in the middle of the park, Andy Billingham provided stability in defence and Harry Capewell created chances up front.
After continued pressure, Will Moss got the finishing touch from close range to bring the score level at 2-2 and Redditch then pushed on, showing great character which was rewarded when Dan Waite put them ahead.
However, the neatest finish was still to come as man of the match Waite found himself through on goal after a brilliant long pass from Billingham.
Waite showed great skill and sent a cheeky lob over the Oswestry goalkeeper to make it 4-2 and, although Oswestry scored a goal in the dying seconds of the game, Redditch took maximum points and remain second in the table on goal difference behind Stafford, who they visit on Saturday in what looks set to be an exciting encounter.
CAPTAINED by 12-year-old Alfie Wheeler, Redditch Badgers recovered from a shaky start to see off hosts Evesham 3-0.
Evesham had numerous shots on target in the opening ten minutes but the Badgers battled well and it paid off when Jack Drysdale got on the scoresheet to make it 1-0 at half time.
Redditch started the second half much better with good passing and moving from Eugene Reed in central midfield and he found Ben Tominski on the right wing who slotted home to double the lead.
Evesham were not about to sit back and they continued to pack their midfield, getting away shots on target, but the visitors threatened on the counter-attack as 11-year-old debutant Ben Morris drove down the left wing.
Redditch continued to press as Drysdale went close before Sean McCaughey completed the scoring for the Badgers, who host Stourport in a friendly on Saturday.
IN-FORM Anna Stafford was again on the scoresheet for Redditch Ladies but her goal could not save them from a 3-1 defeat at Bournville 1sts.
Stafford struck with a superb shot from a short corner, whilst player of the match for Redditch was keeper Beth Vincent who made some outstanding saves.
