How to book your tickets…
Tickets start at just £5 for under 18s and £12.50 for adults, making it a fun and affordable day out for everyone. Tickets are available from Ticketmaster.co.uk or by phoning 0844 815 0815.
The Maxifuel Super Sixes is hockey’s thrilling, skilful six-a-side showpiece indoor event where goals are guaranteed in action-packed, lightning-quick, 20 minute halves. The event features four fantastic matches - two men’s semi finals, the women’s final and the men’s final – plus, a whole load more entertainment including the chance for kids to meet their Olympic heroes and the opportunity to ‘beat the goalie’, Great Britain’s very own James Fair.
Doors open at 11am. Matches will take place at the following times with entertainment intervals throughout the day.
12:00 - Men’s Semi-final 1
13:35 - Men’s Semi-final 2
15:20 - Women’s Final
16:50 - Men’s Final
For more information visit www.englandhockey.co.uk/maxifuelsupersixes.

Redditch Mens Firsts took their most convincing win since last February, with a 10-3 demolition of Stafford.

Having scraped past the visitors just six days previously with a  1-0 win in a cup game, Redditch fielded a much stronger side, and it showed with the Reds 4-0 up mid-way through the first half with a treble from Andy Brooks, and one from Lee Slipanczewski .

The visitors showed resolve though and pulled it back to 4-2 at half time.

Redditch had a good chance to extend their lead shortly after the break with Slipanczewski winning a penalty corner from which Jason Ellis-Woodley went close.

Stafford quickly reset the play and scored with an incisive breakaway, leaving the game poised on a knife edge.

But Redditch rapidly took a stranglehold, from which the visitors never recovered. Ellis-Woodley won a penalty corner shortly afterwards, from which Brooks grabbed his fourth goal of the game.

Ellis-Woodley then scooped a goal for himself, scoring from a penalty corner won by skipper Chris Thomas.

The flame haired midfielder then doubled his tally just minutes later with a superbly executed move from another penalty corner to give Redditch a 7-3 lead.

A chance to further extend the advantage went missing five minutes later though when Slipanczewski saw his shot from a penalty flick saved by the visiting keeper.

Redditch made amends though and a made it 8-3 with a stunning move. Andy Thomas passing long to Richard Sellors whose neat flick saw Steve Cook unmarked at the post to tap in.

An amazing solo run from Pete Dawson, followed by a fierce reverse stick drive gave Redditch a 9-3 lead, before Cook added to his tally from a penalty corner to complete the rout.

Redditch Ladies Firsts were defeated 5-4 away at Harborne, with Anna Stafford, Becki Clarke, Emma Preston and Lindsay Morris getting on the scoresheet.

Redditch Mens Seconds continue to show fight in the West Midlands Premier, but succumbed to a narrow 3-2 defeat at Khalsa, with Jason Abbotts and Lee Beedon securing the goals.

Redditch Mens Threes up and down season continued with a 4-1 win at home to Market Drayton. Experienced Antony Brookes secured a hat trick, while Liam Jakeman secured his first ever senior goal, with a much improved Redditch performance.

Redditch Girls Under 18s put up a valiant fight against Worcerster despite only having nine players, and were unfortunate to lose 5-1, with Liv Laxton grabbing the solitary goal.

Tom Dunkley scores the winning goal for Redditch Mens 1s in the Cup

Redditch Men’s Firsts returned to winning ways on Saturday as they brushed Leamington aside 6-2. Despite not yet being up to full fitness, Andy Brooks reminded of his danger at this level with a stunning hat trick, with Jason Ellis Woodley scooping a brace and Steve Cook scoring the sixth. Redditch are up to fourth in the division and are top scorers in the league, with league leaders Wednesbury next up at home at Bromsgrove Road this weekend.

The Firsts also succeeded in the first round of the England Hockey Board’s Men’s Vase cup game on Sunday, with a 3-2 win away at Old Wulfrunians. Captain Chris Thomas’ strike ensured Redditch were 1-0 at half time, before Jason Ellis-Woodley’s superb drive from the edge of the D put the Reds 2-0 up. Tom Dunkley added the third at the far post after good work from Jason Abbotts to seemingly secure the game.

However both Ellis-Woodley and Dean Farmer spent times on the side-lines after receiving yellow cards, and with Redditch down to 10 men for two prolonged spells, the hosts grabbed two goals to ensure a nervy finale. The Kingfishers hung on however to progress to the next round and face an away trip to Stafford in November.

The Ladies Firsts were beaten 4-1 at home to Badsey, with Stella Smith’s stunning solo spin and shot the only real positive in an underwhelming display. The Ladies will look to return to their form shown last season away at Pershore this weekend.

Redditch Men’s Seconds continue to show promise in the West Midlands Premier Second Team League, even if results are yet to go their own way. Dan Waite’s squad succumbed to a 4-2 home defeat at home to high-flying Old Wulfrunians, but held their own for the majority of the game.

Waite’s solo effort from the edge of the D mid-way through the first period gave the Kingfishers the lead which would last until the final minutes of the half when two quick goals from the visitors gave them a 2-1 advantage at the break.

Wulfrunians grabbed another brace in the second half before Jason Abbotts’ pulled one back with an effort at the far post.

In perhaps the surprise result of the day, Redditch Mens Thirds secured a 4-2 win at home to the then unbeaten Old Silhillians. The visitors had scored 15 goals and conceded just one before the weekend, however Barry Fitzpatrick’s men pulled a superb performance out of the bag. Tim Gibbs secured his second goal in as many games by opening the account, with John Manison scoring either side of half time, before newcomer Jamie Browning wrapped up a superb victory.

The Ladies Thirds were beaten 5-1 away at Stourport, with Emma Lynch securing Redditch’s solitary strike.

Redditch Hockey Club Mens Firsts continued their floundering start to life back in the MRHA West Midlands Division One following last season’s relegation with a 4-2 defeat at Market Drayton. Goals from Steve Cook and Lee Slipanczewski were not enough as the Kingfishers slipped to their second defeat of the season, leaving them sixth in the division.

Redditch Mens Seconds have showed promise in their first season in the MRHA Second Team League West Midlands Premier. They are yet to win following their promotion, but came very close to securing a maiden point last weekend at home to Old Halesonians. They fell behind early in the game before Anthony Brookes equalised from a penalty corner, only to lose their equal footing with barely two minutes remaining on the clock.

Redditch Mens Thirds have endured a difficult start to their new season and have yet to secure a win on the pitch, with their only points so far coming after their game against Kidderminster two games ago was cancelled. They succumbed to a 4-1 defeat at local rivals Bromsgrove on Saturday with Tim Gibbs securing the solitary goal.

Redditch Ladies Firsts have had an indifferent start to their season, despite a 9-1 home win against Pershore Firsts two weekends ago. Unfortunately they were unable to carry their form on to last weekend and suffered a 3-1 loss away at Worcester with Anna Stafford securing the goal.

Meanwhile Redditch Ladies Thirds have made an impressive start to their campaign and lie second in the Worcestershire League Division Three after a 4-0 win at home to Droitwich Seconds.

A stunning hat trick and player of the match performance from Milly Vincent, in her first season in senior hockey was the highlight of a resolute performance from the team, with Kirsty Williams and Julie Jones displaying superb attacking and defensive ability. A strike from fellow newcomer Jodie Wollacott rounded off the rout.

A young Redditch Badgers side lose 3-1 to Bromsgrove but still there were some promising performances with Aston Crombie taking a well taken goal and Jake Beard and Dan Fisher showing potential in midfield.

To view full image galleries from the season so far click here to visit our Facebook page.

Adults training resumes on Wednesday 10th August from 7pm to 9pm and Juniors start again on Wednesday 7th September from 5.30pm to 7pm.  As usual training will take place at Bromsgrove Road.

Summer fitness training continues to run at the Abbey Stadium from 10am each Saturday. These sessions pose the ideal opportunity to freshen up before the season begins!

Despite dominating large spells of possession, and with much of the game spent in the Tenbury half, it was the visitors who took the lead with a rare attack in the first half.

But Liv Laxton was on hand to rescue a point for Redditch, which leaves them third in the division ahead of this weekend’s game against Stourport Thirds.

Redditch Mens Seconds continue to improve, and now lie third in the MRHA Second Team League West Midlands Division 1.

Tim Gibbs grabbed both goals as the Reds won 2-1 away at Stone.

Redditch Mens Thirds suffered a tight 2-0 loss at Pershore, in a game in which both teams showed a sporting side.

Pershore looked to have gone ahead in the first half, but admitted that the goal was illegal, and was duly disallowed.

Redditch more than held their own in the first half, and created several good chances, but two breaks from Pershore in the second half saw them establish a two goal advantage that Redditch were unable to claw back.

Redditch Ladies Seconds bounced back from the previous weekends defeat with a 5-0 win at Droitwich.

The Seconds put in another solid team performance with excellent build up play seeing Becci Gilroy scooping a hat trick, with Emma Lynch and Kate Nightingale each adding their names to the score sheet.

The result will come as a perfect confidence boost ahead of the game with fellow high flyers Ludlow this weekend.

Robert was a hugely respected member of the club, and an active participant both on and off the pitch. He was an integral member of the Mens Second team that pushed for promotion in 2009-10, and was expected to feature regularly for the First team in 2010-11. Robert hugely enjoyed his hockey, and was happy to play for any team in any position.

The thoughts of Redditch Hockey Club lie with the family and friends of Robert at this difficult time. He will be sorely missed by all members of the club.

http://www.mrha.co.uk/LeagueTables.asp?leagueid=1&divisionid=7

A tense and thrilling final victory against close rivals Streetly saw Redditch crowned CHAMPIONS.

Huge congratulations to the club officials, all teams, captains and players for a successful club season.

Awards night will be held 15th May with details to follow soon. (see upcoming events)

An emphatic 8-1 win away at Old Silhillians looks to have secured promotion for Redditch Hockey Club Mens Firsts, Andy Brooks putting in a captains performance with five goals despite playing in defence.

But with promotion a bare minimum and the league title very much the target at the start of the season and with close rivals Streetly still to play, celebrations were muted.

Promotion though was fully deserved after a physical game that saw Redditch play some of their best hockey all season.

That’s not saying their opponents were a walkover though, and Old Silhillians could have opened the scoring within 15 seconds of the start, an aerial ball from midfield evading Redditch defender Paul Markham’s stick, only for an attacker to clumsily run the ball out of play.

Redditch got the ball rolling in the third minute when Brooks scored from a penalty corner.

Old Silhillians replied in the 11^th minute though, playing the ball around well from a penalty corner of their own before an attacker on the edge of the D fired home past Redditch keeper Scott Paul.

Redditch should have taken the lead in the 16^th minute, a nicely created move from Antony Brookes playing in Richard Sellors unmarked three yards out, but shooting wide with an open goal to aim at.

But Jason Ellis Woodley was the man to put Redditch back in front, latching onto Markham’s pass before running with the ball and finding space for a smart reverse stick drive in the 22^nd minute that rifled into the middle of the net.

Paul was forced into making a save in the 30^th minute, while Brooks was also keeping the opposition keeper busy with a shot saved in the 32^nd minute.

Then on the brink of half time, Redditch moved 3-1 ahead when Brooks scored again from a penalty corner, seeing his first shot blocked before coolly capitalising on the rebound to fire home.

The second half began with Redditch again on top, but the game was made more difficult for Old Silhillians in the 47^th minute when a strong challenge from Markham left a player from the home side with a nasty looking knee injury that saw him carried off the pitch.

And the game was stopped again two minutes later while another Silhillians player received treatment after being struck in the chest from a shot from a Redditch penalty corner, Redditch winning a penalty flick as a result.

With the home side down to ten and one walking wounded, Redditch seized the initiative, and Silhillians were barely afforded a sniff.

Brooks secured his hat trick from the penalty flick and three minutes later Redditch scored perhaps their best goal of the season.

In a beautifully crafted move, Brooks passed to Pete Dawson in midfield, who found Woodley before sighting Sellors in the D, who made up for his earlier calamity to fire home to complete a wonderful passing move.

Two minutes later Redditch grabbed their sixth, a long corner was played to Brookes whose clever little flick saw Steve Cook score from close range.

With 10 minutes remaining Redditch scored their seventh, Woodley holding the ball up on the top of the D before finding an outlay to Brooks who took the ball past the Silhillians defenders to secure his fourth goal of the day.

And Brooks got his fifth and Redditch’s eighth goal from another penalty flick after two fouls in the D on Ray Jakeman and Brookes with just two minutes remaining.

With promotion now dependant on relegation and promotion matters in the higher divisions that could impact on how many teams are promoted from the lower leagues, Redditch will now look to focus on two games with Newtown and Whitchurch this weekend with the title likely to be decided on the final game of the season away at Streetly who remain just a point behind.

Adrian Young’s Mens Seconds weren’t in action on the weekend but were handed a massive boost when second and third placed Streetly and Shrewsbury could only draw with each other, leaving Redditch in pole position for promotion, with the league title guaranteed if they beet both Streetly and Shrewsbury in their final two games.

But the promotion charge is as good as over for Barry Fitzpatrick’s Mens Thirds, who are now six points behind the promotion places with two games remaining, and have also played a game extra.

They could only manage a 2-2 draw at home to Pershore.

[Show as slideshow]

Coach Daniel Jakeman led out his troops onto the pitch for a 12 o’clock start with an inspiring pre match prep talk.

But despite a strong following, Redditch would eventually be knocked out, explains guest reporter Dave Pilkington.

Redditch started brightly with some early pressure from Jodie Wallacott and there was some good tackling in midfield from Philippa Williams, however Reading seized possession and through a series of lucky deflections the ball ended up in the Redditch net.

The opening minutes were frantic but a calm head in defence from Danni Nevitt kept the deficit to a single goal.
However the constant pressure told with a penalty corner for Reading from which they scored leaving the score at 2-0.
Nicola Moss provided some respite for the Redditch defence and there was more good defending from Danni Nevitt. Philippa Williams was quickly out on penalty corners to prevent more goals.
Mid way through the half, Redditch were still hanging in the match after Olivia Laxton cleared off the line and Stacey Cowley made some excellent saves in the Redditch goal but the defence were breached in the 20th minute leaving the score at 3-0.
Again the forwards were fighting hard and Kirsty Williams showed some excellent skill to win a free hit just inside the Reading half, but this attack petered out and more pressure from Reading forced Cowley into more good saves.
There was concern from the sidelines in the 25th minute when Olivia Laxton was hit by a lifted ball however after some ice from the physio she recovered. Steph Beaumont was constantly helping out the defence with excellent tackling.
After these concerns Redditch seemed more inspired and an excellent run from Nicola Moss left Kirsty Williams to break into the Reading D and win a penalty corner, however the subsequent shot was deflected over the bar off a Reading stick. The long corner was then lost leading to another Reading attack.
There was more brave defence from the back three of Nevitt, Laxton and Beth Vincent however once again they were breached in the 28th minute after a goal-mouth scramble.
Straight from the push back Reading again won the ball and broke through with some dazzling skill to score a fifth inside the first half.
Redditch however did not allow their heads to drop and there were some promising runs from twins Helen and Kate Racki with some support play from Millie Vincent which provided an optimistic end to the first half.
At the start of the second half however Reading seemed to have been inspired and won an early short corner, this time Cowley was able to watch the ball skim wide of the post.
Redditch then attacked and Rachel Nevitt forced a short corner for the Redditch girls. This was injected by Nevitt to Laxton who squared the ball, but to the disappointment of the players and supporters, Philippa Williams shot slid agonisingly wide of the post.
Redditch continued in an attacking vein winning a long corner and also there were some promising runs from Kate Racki.
The pressure was then exerted on the defence once again with a series of short corners for the home side, Cowley saved two and Beth Vincent in defence stopped one on the line and Philippa Williams took a nasty blow on the leg blocking a shot however eventually the wall was breached and the sixth goal went in.

Within a minute Reading had scored again with a run from their midfielder making the score 7-0 and only a save from Cowley prevented an eighth only seconds later. Unfortunately the pressure continued and in the 60th minute Reading extended their lead to eight and in the 65th minute they scored a ninth. The final five minutes had Redditch on the back foot but committed play from all the girls avoided another goal being conceded.
Overall the girls put up a spirited fight and played with real commitment. Beth Vincent and Danni Nevitt fought hard in defence and some excellent saves from Cowley kept the total below double figures, Laxton helped inspire the midfield where Moss and Williams fought hard with both Racki twins adding good drives forward, Rachel Nevitt and Millie Vincent lead the line as best they could along with Wallacott who showed excellent skills, Kirsty Williams was inspirational when on and was behind many Redditch attacks however the opposition turned out to be too strong and skilful and 9-0 was overall a fair reflection of Readings domination.

Many thanks to Dave for this superb write up!

Redditch Mens Firsts are now on the brink of securing promotion back to the MRHA West Midlands Premier after securing a 5-1 win at home to Stafford on Saturday.

Going into the away game at Old Silhillians, The Kingfishers will know that a win will guarantee promotion with three games still to play, whilst a draw should also see them up due to their vastly superior goal difference over third placed Droitwich.

But against Stafford on Saturday, Redditch faced a real battle, Stafford in with a shout of taking home the spoils until mid way through the first half.

The Kingfishers very nearly made an immediate impact within the first 30 seconds, Antony Brookes putting an effort wide after Redditch made a quick start.

Brookes put another effort wide in the ninth minute after Richard Sellors played him on nicely, while Pete Dawson and Dave Smith carved out another opportunity in the 11^th minute.

But the pressure paid off a minute later, Dave Smith and Brookes combining well for Sellors to put Redditch ahead at the far post.

Chris Thomas then had a great chance to extend the lead in the 14^th minute, collecting a brilliant up field pass from Dawson, taking the ball around the goalkeeper on the edge of the D only to shoot narrowly wide.

The visitors weren’t out of it though, and forced a save from Redditch keeper Scott Paul in the 24^th minute.

The game was nicely poised at half time, even more so when Stafford equalised five minutes after the break from a penalty flick.

And that seemed to be a needed boost for Stafford started to play better hockey with some flowing moves creating trouble for the Redditch defence.

The Reds weathered the storm though and moved ahead once more in the 51^st minute.

Steve Cook was fouled outside the D and Redditch were awarded a penalty corner. Andy Brooks’ shot was deflected to Sellors, the ball falling beautifully for Cook on the right to fire home from close range.

Six minutes later Redditch had a penalty flick of their own after Cook was fouled in the D, Brooks standing up to put Redditch 3-1 ahead.

And when Redditch scored again in the 63^rd minute it was as good as game over, Cook slamming home from a penalty corner.

Then with three minutes remaining, Redditch made a break through Cook who rounded the keeper before passing to Sellors who grabbed his second of the game to wrap up proceedings.

[Show as slideshow]

Redditch Mens Seconds took another useful step towards promotion, with a 3-2 win away at Old Silhillians.

Adrian Young’s men remain top of their league with just two games remaining, but due to the fixture set-up now face a week out while second and third placed Streetly and Shrewsbury play each other in a game that could go some way towards deciding which two teams are promoted at the end of the year.

After their week off, the Seconds play both Streetly and Shrewsbury in a difficult and nerve-wracking finale to the season.

But if they show the same level of grit and determination during the final games as they have in the second half of the season then promotion will be thoroughly deserved.

Against Old Silhillians Redditch looked to have made things easy for themselves with two goals in the first half.

Dave Baker put them ahead in the sixth minute from a penalty corner, before Lee Beedon doubled the advantage in the 21^st.

And when Alan Povey grabbed Redditch’s third ten minutes into the second half it looked as if it were game over.

The home side fought back though, scoring two goals leaving Redditch on their back feet, but the Kingfishers held on to claim what could be a valuable win.

[Show as slideshow]

Redditch Mens Thirds promotion challenge looks to be over though after losing 4-3 away at Streetly.

Goals from Matt Davies and Lawniey Chiu had put Barry Fitzpatrick’s men two ahead at half time, and despite another Davies strike, Streetly fought back to score four goals that will severely dent Redditch’s promotion aspirations.

Redditch Ladies Firsts claimed a 4-3 win away at Droitwich that cements their mid table status.

Two goals from Anna Stafford put Redditch 2-1 ahead at half time, before goals from Liv Laxton and Leah Healey sewed the game up.

Redditch Ladies Seconds meanwhile stunned league leaders Harbourne with a 4-0 win.

]]> http://redditchhc.co.uk/index.php/2010/03/mens-seconds-take-another-step-towards-promotion/feed/ http://redditchhc.co.uk/index.php/2010/02/demolitions-battles-victories/ http://redditchhc.co.uk/index.php/2010/02/demolitions-battles-victories/#comments Tue, 23 Feb 2010 17:39:55 +0000 richr http://redditchhc.co.uk/?p=865

Redditch Mens Firsts put in two superb performances on Saturday, the first to clear the pitch of snow following Thursdays blizzard, and then proceeded to demolish bottom side Ludlow 14-1 at Bromsgrove Road.

With the Ladies Firsts game called off, it was only after the Mens Firsts squad cleared the pitch during the afternoon that the match was finally given the go ahead.

And what a good job it did, with Redditch giving their best performance in months.

But after a difficult first half you could have been forgiven for thinking that the Reds were in for a much tougher game.

Redditch took the lead in the tenth minute through Antony Brookes, but only after the visitors had gone close on more than one occasion.

And the visitors were given a way back into the game in the 15^th minute when a defensive error from Ray Jakeman allowed a Ludlow attacker a free run on goal before going round Redditch goalkeeper Scott Paul to slot home.

The visitors continued to exert pressure and should have gone closer from a penalty corner in the 21^st minute but instead shooting wide.

The ascendancy fell towards Redditch in the 23^rd minute though when a Ludlow player was yellowed, and moments later the Kingfishers moved ahead through captain Andy Brooks’ high shot from a penalty corner.

The visitors weren’t without their chances though; another defensive error this time from Paul Markham saw Ludlow gifted another opportunity, only to shoot wide.

But Markham made up for it moments later, clearing a shot off the line with keeper Paul beaten.

Then in the 32^nd minute Redditch made the most of their numerical advantage when Richard Sellors scored from close range in the aftermath of a penalty corner.

Brookes then put a shot wide before Dave Smith grabbed his first in the 35^th minute to send Redditch 4-1 ahead at half time.

But Redditch went in at the break temporarily a man down, Jakeman’s miserable afternoon going from bad to worse after receiving a yellow card for contesting an umpire decision.

Coach Wayne Beard must have had some magic words at half time, for after the interval Ludlow were barely given a sniff as the Kingfishers piled forwards.

Brookes got the ball rolling immediately after capitalising on a rebound from a Brooks shot to score his second of the day from a yard out.

Smith then grabbed his second of the day in the 38^th minute after good work from Sellors, before competing his hat trick two minutes later from a well worked penalty corner routine,

Redditch had half a dozen shots two minutes later that the visiting keeper somehow kept out before Brooks scored his second in the 43^rd minute.

Brookes became the second Redditch player to complete a hat trick in the 52^nd minute, with his shot taking a deflection off the keeper on its way in.

And Brookes’ fourth goal three minutes later moved Redditch into double figures, scoring after good work down the right flank by the energetic Steve Cook.

Brooks then had a shout put onto the crossbar from a penalty corner before getting his hat trick in the 63^rd minute with a powerful shot from inside the D.

Smith had his fourth in the 66^th minute after good work from Cook and Brooks, while Brookes saw a fifth goal go begging after putting the ball over the bar a minute later.

Ludlow then had another player yellowed with just over a minute remaining, and Redditch took advantage again.

Brooks grabbed his fourth of the day from a penalty corner before Jason Ellis-Woodley hit Redditch’s 14^th goal with seconds remaining to complete the rout.

[Show as slideshow]

It was also a good day for the remainder of the club, with both the Mens Seconds and Mens Thirds securing crucial wins.

Adrian Young’s Seconds moved closer to league glory with a battling 4-3 win away at Bridgnorth, again coming from behind to grab a vital win.

The game started evenly with the Redditch defence tested before Pete Dawson broke the deadlock to put Redditch ahead.

Bridgnorth recovered to score two goals, both from first from well drilled penalty corner routines the first just evading keeper Young,

Lee Beedon equalised for Redditch after a silky run, but Bridgnorth were soon ahead again after sloppy defensive work from Redditch allowed a Bridgnorth attacker a free effort on goal.

But Redditch once more showed their fighting qualities that have kept them top of the league, with some improved hockey in the second half.

Kyle Haresign’s persistence on the right wing was rewarded with 15 minutes remaining when his shot from an acute angle was deflected into the net by a Bridgnorth defender.

Beedon then grabbed his second of the day with only a few minutes remaining to secure Redditch a hard earned win that keeps them top of the league with just four games remaining.

But in the dying seconds Redditch suffered what could be a critical blow, Haresign suffering cruciate ligament damage after a heavy tackle, forcing the midfielder to miss the remainder of the season.

Barry Fitzpatrick’s Mens Thirds couldn’t quite replicate their 10-0 demolition of Kingswinford earlier in the season, but still managed a 4-0 win with Jason Abbotts, John Manison and Alex Ward’s double securing an important win in their battle for promotion.

Sunday was less successful for Redditch Mens Firsts as they were sent crashing out of the England Hockey Mens Vase after losing 6-3 at home to Kent side Old Bordenian.

Redditch made a strong start to the game and went ahead in the sixth minute through Richard Sellors’ deflected shot following a penalty corner.

The visitors gradually made their way into the game, forcing Scott Paul into making a save in the eighth minute.

The scores were level in the 16^th minute, a defensive error from captain Andy Brooks allowing an Old Bordenian attacker time on the ball before shooting, the ball deflecting off Paul on it’s way into the goal, with Brooks backtracking unable to stop the ball on the line.

And the visitors were ahead four minutes later, an Old Bordenian attacker allowed a clear shot on goal by the Redditch defence.

The Kingfishers fought back immediately, and equalised from another penalty corner with Steve Cook on hand to fire in at the back post.

Paul was forced into action again in the 23^rd minute, saving well from a brisk Bordenian counter attack.

But with scored level and looking like staying that way until half time, Bordenian countered again, with a shot from the edge of the D finding its way into the net to put the visitors ahead on the stroke of half time.

The half time boost seemed to fire up the visitors even more, and effectively won the game in the first seven minutes following the interval.

Bordenian tore through the Redditch defence in the 39^th minute to go further ahead, and two minutes later a harsh umpiring decision saw Bordenian awarded a free hit, from which they capitalised to grab their fifth goal.

And a minute later the game was won for the visitors, a penalty corner played around well before scoring.

From there a comeback for Redditch never looked likely, although the Kingfishers weren’t without their chances.

Steve Dawes making a return to first team action after several months on the sidelines was just unable to get on the end of a Brooks cross in the 51^st minute, and four minutes later was denied by the goalkeeper with a close range effort after good work from Antony Brookes.

With 12 minutes remaining Redditch hopes were raised when Steve Cook fired home after good work from the Kingfishers midfield.

Five minutes later and the deficit should have been narrowed further, Brooks hitting the crossbar from a penalty corner.

But Bordenian never looked like being seriously threatened and Redditch will now have more time to focus on league glory after seeing the chase for silverware end for another season.

But elsewhere there was more to cheer about as Redditch’s Girls Under 16’s side progressed to the quarter finals of the England Hockey Girls Under 16’s Plate after beating Worcester 2-0 at Bromsgrove Road.

An emotional double from Rachel Nevitt won the game for Redditch after a tight game.

The first came in the 25^th minute, cueing raucous celebrations on both the sidelines and on the pitch, before she added her second with a simple tap in with nine minutes remaining.

Combined with solid work in the defence from Danni Nevitt and Beth Vincent, and some decent goalkeeping from Stacey Cowley, Redditch rarely looked like conceding, leaving Worcester frustrated and Redditch coach Paul Cowley visibly delighted with his teams efforts.

Redditch now face a trip to Reading on March 7^th with a place in the semi-finals at stake.

[Show as slideshow]

Redditch Mens Firsts overcame a stuttering start to eventually defeat local rivals Bromsgrove 5-1 away at Trinity High School.

The Kingfishers went into the game looking for a more straightforward encounter following last weeks skin of their teeth victory against lowly Kidderminster.

The prospects of an easy game didn’t look likely though when Bromsgove countered in the 11^th minute to score with their first attack of the game.

The goal was somewhat unfair on Redditch, having made a bright start to the game with the ball parked firmly in the Bromsgrove half.

Redditch showed signs of an instant recovery, Dan Waite having a couple of chances saved by the Bromsgrove goalkeeper.

But Redditch were level in the 14^th minute, the ball being played out nicely around the back by the Redditch defenders before crossing to Antony Brookes who slotted in from close range.

Six minutes later and Redditch moved ahead, Captain Andy Brooks shooting from a penalty corner, seeing his first shot saved before burying the rebound.

Waite then had two more chances within a minute, putting one over the bar before shooting wide moments later.

Then from another penalty corner in the 27^th minute, Brooks fired in for Richard Sellors to deflect his shot into the net to move Redditch further ahead.

Bromsgrove were still looking to threaten, and it took good work from Dan Jakeman chasing back before tacking a Bromsgrove forward to prevent an attacking opportunity in the 31^st minute.

And the home side should have converted a penalty corner on the brink of half time only to shoot wide.

The second half began with some controversy with some poor umpiring decisions from which lesser teams would have crumbled.

But Redditch, led by Brooks showed great respect to the officials, particularly when decisions went against them and showed a great level of discipline to keep the game flowing.

Bromsgrove were awarded a penalty corner in the 46^th minute, a dubious decision, but Redditch kept their heads to clear the threat before Scott Paul kept out a follow-up shot.

Redditch began to threaten again though, Brookes shooting wide in the 48^th minute before Anthony Butterworth narrowly failed to get on the end of a dangerous cross.

But Butterworth, making his return to first team action following a prolonged spell on the sidelines with an ankle injury, made amends with 11 minutes remaining to slot home from close range after a goalmouth scramble.

Redditch saved the best until last though, Jakeman crossing in from the right wing for Waite to flick home spectacularly from the edge of the D to put the icing on a comprehensive win.

[Show as slideshow]

Redditch Mens Seconds drew for the first time this season, but still remain top of the MRHA Mens Second Team West Midlands Division One after seeing other results fall their way.

In a tight encounter at home to Evesham, the Reds once again demonstrated their battling spirit to salvage a 4-4 draw despite at one stage being 3-1 down, but will feel aggrieved not to have won after Alan Povey saw a late penalty flick disallowed after a controversial umpire decision.

Redditch took the lead early on through Tim Gibbs’ sublime drive from a penalty corner.

But Evesham rallied and quickly recovered to move 3-1 ahead, leaving Redditch reeling.

Povey grabbed a tap in to reduce the deficit, only to see Evesham restore their two-goal advantage.

Pete Dawson pulled one back for Redditch though, before Ben Hyde grabbed the equaliser.

Then with seconds remaining, Redditch were awarded a penalty flick, from which Povey thought he had scored, only for the umpires to decide moments later that his stick had mate contact with the ball twice and was therefore illegal.

But the draw will be regarded as a good result by captain Adrian Young, with Evesham the stronger side throughout.

Redditch Mens Thirds were defeated 2-0 away at Stafford and now face an uphill battle in the race for promotion, while Redditch Ladies Firsts were beaten 6-0 away at Tenbury.

[Show as slideshow]

Redditch Mens Firsts produced a mesmerising fight back on Saturday, overcoming a vastly improved Kidderminster side 3-2 at Bromsgrove Road,

It was a far from convincing performance, and with several key players missing, including captain Andy Brooks, it was a threadbare squad available to coach Wayne Beard, and after falling behind to two first half Kidderminster goals it looked as if the game would be too much for the Kingfishers.

But a stirring final 15 minutes saw Redditch overcome the odds to secure an unlikely victory.

Redditch began the game strongly, a nice move in the fourth minute from Dave Smith and Antony Brookes finding Dave Pilkington in the D, who was just unable to make the most of the opportunity.

Dan Jakeman then created an opening for Richard Sellors, but a lack of control saw a chance go begging.

Sellors almost made amends five minutes later, seeing his shot saved by the goalkeeper, with Steve Cook also denied by the visiting keeper moments later.

But Kidderminster counter attacked well in the 13^th minute, and took the lead with their first attack of the game.

The goal shocked Redditch, and Kidderminster were soon threatening again, this time with a penalty corner that was well saved by stand in goalkeeper Adrian Young.

But the lead was doubled in the 15^th minute after the visitors were awarded a penalty flick, scoring despite Young guessing the right way.

Kidderminster proceeded to finish the half the strongest with several more chances to further extend their lead, though Redditch showed signs of promise with a couple of half decent opportunities, including a penalty corner that saw Brookes first have a shot saved and then put one wide.

The second half began with a flurry of missed opportunities for Redditch with the Kidderminster goalkeeper making four saves in four minutes to deny Redditch a pathway back into the game.

And when Cook was yellowed in the 50^th minute and thus enduring a ten-minute sin bin, the game looked as good as lost.

But despite being a man down, it was still Redditch controlling play and creating chances.

Pilkington won a penalty corner from which Brookes saw another shot saved, while a brilliantly crafted move moments later, with Sellors, Jason Ellis-Woodley and stand in captain Chris Thomas all involved saw Thomas in with a chance of putting his team back into the game, only for his fierce drive from the edge of the D to be saved by the goalkeeper.

Brookes then had more chances from two penalty corners in succession, one shot meeting the goalkeepers’ gloves with the other spooning over the bar.

But it was Cook’s return to the pitch that seemed to give the added spark Redditch needed, Cook almost scoring within seconds of rejoining play, only to shoot wide.

Three minutes later, Cook found Brookes on the P-spot who took a decent first touch before a composed finish into the roof of the net to get the comeback rolling.

And two minutes later a trademark set piece from a penalty corner saw Brookes return the favour, with Cook firing home from his cross.

Then, when a Kidderminster player was yellowed with less than five minutes remaining, Redditch moved in for the kill.

With little more than three minutes remaining, a Redditch shot hit a Kidderminster body on the goal line, leaving the umpires with no choice but to award a penalty flick.

Brookes stepped up and fired into the back of the net to put the Kingfishers ahead for the first time in the game.

But Redditch had goalkeeper Young to thank, when with moments to spare, and the game seemingly won, Kidderminster made a last gasp break for a point and had two players clear of the Redditch defence.

Young narrowed the angle before sliding out to claim the ball for the home side.

And with the ball cleared away and the last moments counted down, Redditch were able to celebrate a dramatic and eventually deserved win.

[Show as slideshow]

Redditch’s four other teams had poor days on Saturday, no side managing to secure a win.

A brace from Anna Stafford wasn’t enough as Redditch Ladies Firsts were defeated 3-2 away at Badsey, while the Ladies Seconds lost 2-0 at home Ludlow.

Redditch Mens Thirds slipped up in their promotion campaign on Saturday losing 3-2 at home to Old Silhillians.

Goals from Tim Oscroft and Jason Abbotts had put Barry Fitzpatrick’s men 2-1 ahead at half time, but the visitors left it late to score twice to steal the game.

A Pete Dawson hat trick was the highlight for the Mens Seconds on Saturday, but even that couldn’t prevent a 4-3 defeat away at Finchfield.

But Adrian Young’s second string made amends on Sunday with a tight 3-1 victory in their rearranged fixture at home to Berkswell and Balsall Common.

Things started off shakily, Young in goal called upon as early as the second minute to make a save after the visitors carved out a decent opportunity before hitting the post from the rebound.

Redditch recovered and had a chance to grab the lead almost immediately after with Pete Dawson’s shot from a well worked penalty corner saved by the visiting goalkeeper, Bryan Melliard also going close from a penalty corner in the seventh minute.

And it was Melliard who put Redditch ahead a minute later after the Kingfishers broke through the Berkswell defence.

A superb ball from defender Rob Markham gave Alan Povey the chance to double the lead in the 14^th minute after, only to shoot wide.

Berkswell were still a threat though and looked to draw level after breaking in the 25^th minute, but Young was equal to the shot and pulled off a save.

But Young was beaten a minute later as Berkswell scored from a penalty corner, Young saving the initial shot before the rebound was fired in.

Redditch re-took the lead soon after though, Povey winning a penalty corner in the 33^rd minute, from which Tim Gibbs switched left to Dawson who coolly hit the backboard.

The second half was a quieter affair, with both Melliard and Povey seeing chances wasted, Povey going closest seeing a shot saved from a penalty corner in the 60^th minute, Gibbs also in the thick of it with an effort from a penalty corner also saved two minutes later.

But Povey made up for his earlier misses when with three minutes remaining a nicely crafted Redditch move saw Povey deflect in at the near post to wrap up proceedings and keep Redditch top of the MRHA Second Team League West Midlands Division One.

[Show as slideshow]

Redditch Mens Firsts finally re-discovered some form at the weekend, securing their first win of 2010 with a 5-3 victory away at Droitwich.

Before the game, coach Wayne Beard was keen to re-install some positivity to his side, and it paid off with Redditch rarely looking like losing their lead once ahead.

But the first five minutes looked a little shaky, with Droitwich danger man and top league scorer Mike Brazier allowed two early opportunities which were dealt with by Scott Paul in the Redditch goal.

The Kingfishers though were keen to expose Droitwich’s defensive frailties, and a defensive error paved the way for Redditch’s first goal in the sixth minute, with Antony Brookes offered an opening. Brookes’ shot was saved by the Droitwich keeper, but the rebound fell kindly to Redditch who played the ball around back to Brookes, making his second effort count to put Redditch ahead.

Brookes saw another shot saved a minute later, but Redditch doubled their lead after another defensive error in the ninth minute.

Droitwich gave the ball away, allowing Richard Sellors to capitalise, his shot saved by the keeper, but falling kindly to Steve Cook at the edge of the D who took a few steps before firing home.

Two minutes later it was three, Jason Ellis-Woodley hitting the backboard after a free hit.

But a sign of the home side’s attacking threat came shortly after with Brazier hitting the Redditch bar with a looping shot.

Paul then had to palm a shot over the bar five minutes later, and then Droitwich were offered two soft opportunities to get back into the game after Redditch disputed two umpire decisions, resulting in two Droitwich penalty corners, the second forcing a save from Paul.

Then in the 28^th minute Brazier ran through the Redditch defence to give Droitwich a path back into the game.

Brazier was looking menacing again four minutes later, but Dan Jakeman did well to break down the threat and launch an attacking offensive.

And Redditch’s three goal cushion was restored with a minute of the half remaining, Cook doing well to find Brookes who grabbed his second of the game.

Brazier then showed an unsporting side with a poor tackle on Ray Jakeman that saw the Redditch midfielder sit out much of the remainder of the game with an injured ankle.

The second half began promisingly for Redditch, with a penalty corner hit narrowly wide by Cook.

Droitwich were still in it though and a penalty corner of their own in the 38^th minute saw Paul forced into action again only for he ball to land at Brazier, Redditch skipper Andy Brooks on hand to stop his effort on the line.

But Redditch were seemingly home and dry by the 47^th minute after a loose ball in the D caused panic, Sellors capitalising from close range to extend Redditch’s lead.

But Brazier pulled one back for Droitwich three minutes later following a penalty corner, and Brazier continued to exert pressure, again threatening from a corner, this time being stopped in his tracks by Paul Markham with Brooks on hand to clear the ball away.

But a nervy finish to the game was in store when with ten minutes remaining Droitwich switched right from a penalty corner and fired home.

And the danger wasn’t over there, Paul again on hand to make a save from a penalty corner with seven minutes remaining.

Paul saved his best till last though, with a fantastic double reflex save from another penalty corner late on, Brooks on hand to clear the loose ball away.

Then with moments to spare Redditch had the chance to sew up the game, Dave Smith finding Brookes unmarked in the D, but despite diving at full stretch was unable to get on the end of the cross.

The result though was a much needed boost and with table-toppers Streetly only managing a 2-2 draw at lowly Kidderminster, Redditch are now only a point off the summit of the MRHA West Midlands Division One.

[Show as slideshow]

Redditch Mens Seconds pulled off a stunning fight back to beat Droitwich seconds 5-4 at home on Saturday.

Adrian Young’s second string were 3-0 down after just ten minutes after a sloppy start and some suspect goalkeeping.

But the Kingfishers showed great character to claw it back to 3-2 at half time, Pete Dawson grabbing the first before in-form youngster Ben Hyde scored the second.

Droitwich extended their lead after half time, but Tim Gibbs got the Redditch come back rolling with a trademark goal from a penalty corner, the ball deflecting off a Droitwich foot on its way to the backboard.

Dawson then grabbed the equaliser before Hyde scored his fourth goal in three games to snatch victory.

With Streetly only managing a draw, Redditch remain top of the MRHA West Midlands Second Team West Midlands Division One. A point ahead of Shrewsbury with a game in hand, while former table toppers Streetly could only manage a draw with Finchfield.

The Seconds were also due to play Berkswell & Balsall Common on Sunday, but the game was postponed until this Sunday due to a frozen pitch.

Barry Fitzpatrick’s Mens Thirds were also victims of the weather, with their game at Bloxwich postponed.

Similarly Redditch Ladies Firsts game against Bromsgrove at Trinity High School was postponed, though the Ladies Seconds were able to play on Saturday, winning 3-1 at home to Kings Heath Pickwick.

[Show as slideshow]