Rugeley 1st XI 0 Droitwich 1st XI 0

TABLE topping Droitwich found resolute Rugeley a tough nut to crack as their winning run in the West Midlands Hockey League Division One West came to an end on Saturday.

Despite considerable pressure by the visitors a Rugeley team which defended deeply resisted all of Spa's probing for a goal.

The draw means the leader's can now be caught by Whitchurch - who have a game in hand.

Captain Paul Atkinson rued his side's inability to score and Rugeley's unwillingness to go for the throat at home.

He said: "Rugeley's pitch is not the best so they tend to hang back and let the visitorsget forward.

"It makes things very difficult for us.

"We made an awful lot of chances but could not score."

Droitwich also had several efforts disallowed by the referee - much to Atkison's annoyance.

He said: "The referee could have played advantage on several occassions and let our goals stand.

"It's frustrating because we know we deserved to win the game."

Droitwich will be hoping for better luck on Saturday when they take on bottom side Kingswinford at home (1.30pm).

The captain said: "We'll be looking to bounce back in the best way possible."