THE expected crunch derby between Kings Norton and Redditch rugby clubs was called off.

The Kings men called the game off on Friday because of their lack of front row players.

League officials could now step in and penalise the Hopwood side by deducting two points.

"This would rub salt into our wounds" said Kings president Roger Adams. "We did not cancel the game lightly.

"We had arranged the day as our vice- presidents and sponsors day and were also due to show off our newly sponsored shirts at the game.

"The cancellation has created quite a financial loss to the club and lots of players from both clubs plus referees went without a game."

Adams added that he believed it was the first time in the club's history they had called a game off because of the situation.

He said: "For obvious safety reasons clubs must only field experienced and fit front row players and since selection took place on Tuesday evening the club has lost five players who were known to be available at that time.

"A combination of injuries, illness and work commitments are the root cause.

"We fully recognise the problems this will cause to Redditch - who already have a fixture back log - and we will offer the floodlit pitch for an evening game in an attempt to resolve this."