West Hagley 0 Droitwich Spa 1

IAN COTTRILL grabbed the only goal of the game as in-form Spa continued their steady rise up the Midland Combination Division Two on Saturday.

Victory saw Droitwich, who have seven games in hand on leaders Birmingham University, move up to eighth.

Droitwich were forced to work hard by West Hagley, who packed the midfield and played with just a loan striker.

After a tight first half Manager Kevin Blaber's side began pushing for a goal.

Richard Maguire and Greg Cooper both had shots saved.

Cottrill was unlucky not to win a penalty after he was brought down in the box.

The breakthrough came ten minutes from time when Cottrill headed in Maguire's corner.

Manager Kevin Blaber said: "It was tight at the start but we began to create a few chances in the final 20 minutes.

"It's a big win as we aim to finish in the top two or three and win promotion."

Droitwich will be hoping to book their place in the final of the Worcestershire Junior Cup Final when they take on Littleton at home on Saturday (1.45pm kick off).

In-form striker Andy Keenahan is set to return for Saturday's clash.

The manager though believes his team can overcome their Division One rivals.

He said: "Littleton were a good side when they were in Division Two.

"They can be a little up and down and hopefully we can take advantage of that."