WORCESTER were overtaken by Bridgnorth in Midland Men’s Hockey League Division One after losing 2-1 at home to their fellow strugglers.

In the six-pointer relegation battle, Worcester started well with a Dom Sullivan pass finding Jack Townsend on the back post but he could not put the chance away.

Soon after a penalty corner was fired to the back post but just put over the bar by Matt Gardner.

Worcester continued to dominate without scoring and they were made to pay when Bridgnorth countered and scored two goals just before half-time.

The hosts started the second half well with a penalty corner put away by Rees Bonham.

They continued to boss the game but dogged defence and a series of niggly fouls by the visitors kept them at bay.

Second-from-bottom Worcester, who visit eighth-placed Edgbaston on Saturday, were unable to find the equaliser their efforts and play really deserved.

The seconds also took on Bridgnorth and took the lead though a passing move that eventually saw Ben Lawrence power all the way from right-back to slot home.

Jeremy Drake added a second as Worcester seemingly took control of the game.

But Bridgnorth pulled a goal back just before half-time.

The second period was a scrappy affair and Worcester pushed hard to increase the lead but Bridgnorth seized one of their few opportunities and finally levelled.

The third XI beat Bromsgrove 2-1 with Tom Lewis getting the first and Brett Pittam the winner.

Worcester fourths’ game was cancelled due to a frozen pitch and the fifths beat Old Silhillians 3-2 with goals from Ollie Betteridge, Alex Kloda and Adam Ball.

The sixth XI had a fine 5-1 win over Bournville with goals from Andy Griffin (2), Terry Duffy, Zac Goodman and Joe Jackman.

Worcester sevenths had a tougher afternoon, losing 5-1 to Kidderminster with a consolation from Chris Fawcett.

There were no women’s games but in the junior section the Pippins beat Evesham White 3-2 through Will Redway (2) and William Barnes.

The other junior team, the Potters, performed admirably against a bigger and older Evesham Reds team but lost 6-0.