Redditch Hockey Club

It may have been St Valentines Day, but the only intimate contact on the pitch was between hockey stick and ball, as Redditch men’s 1st XI were beaten 4-2 by a determined Kings Heath side.

The score line however, does not tell the full story of the game, as Redditch dominated large portions of the game, only to be punished on the counter attack.

It was Redditch who took the lead early on through Steve Cook, bagging his eighth goal of the campaign.

Redditch continued to look dangerous, with the impressive Pete Dawson creating several chances with some penetrating mazy runs into the Kings Heath D.

The Kingfishers strong rear guard had seemingly little to do, with the visitors lacking the cutting edge in the final third, with every attack broken down efficiently by the Redditch defence.

So it was a surprise when Kings Heath equalised, following a free hit, and an even greater shock when they took the lead.

The Kingfishers soon fought back though, and deservedly pulled level through skipper Andy Brooks, with his 11^th goal of the season shortly after half time.

But with several members of the first team missing, a tiring Redditch were cruelly beaten with two further goals from the visitors.

Yet, despite the result, heads can be held high after a generally much improved performance.

With two games next weekend, the Kingfishers will be well aware that if they continue to play in this manner, results will be achieved and any relegation fears can be significantly eased.