Tuesday, January 21, 2003

BROMSGROVE Rovers reached the last four of the Worcestershire Senior Cup with a remarkable 2-1 win over Nationwide division three Kidderminster Harriers at Aggborough on Tuesday, January 21.

Harriers, who fielded nine of the team from their previous league fixture, found Rovers and in particular goalkeeper Matt Lowe in inspired form.

Lowe defied just about everything the home side could throw at him as they laid siege around his penalty box for much of the game.

Rovers took the lead from the penalty spot after 18 minutes through Grant Beckett. But chances were few and far between for Rovers as they battled against Harriers pressure.

Their defence was finally breached on 71 minutes when Lee Ayres headed in at the far post.

But Rovers' bravery was rewarded eleven minutes from time when Ashley Read pounced on a defensive error and chipped the winner.

ROVERS - LOWE 9*, Benbow 7, Banner 7, Brookes 7, Brighton 7, Southwick 7, Beckett 7, Cartwright 6 (sub Danks 45 mins 6), Palmer 7 (sub Burgess 72 mins), Read 8, Frost 8. Subs not used: Thomas, Hackett, Pope.

Att - 582.

Match report by JAMES REECE.