REDDITCH Hockey Club's promotion dream lies in tatters despite a 2-1 derby win over arch rivals Bromsgrove at the weekend.

Any elation among the Redditch players as they trooped off the pitch disappeared when news of the Rugeley result filtered through.

With two sides promoted from DTZ Debenham Thorpe League West Midlands One, Redditch were hoping current second placed side Rugeley would falter.

But with the Staffordshire team cantering to a 5-1 win over Stafford they wrapped up the second promotion berth to leave Redditch in the cold despite Tom Hiles' side going into the New Year at the head of the table for the second season running.

"We were our own worst enemies," said the captain, "the commitment to training since Christmas has been lacking.

"There were games like Kynock and Stafford we should have won but didn't and we have paid the price.

"We were 2-0 up against Kynock despite playing some terrible hockey and we managed to lose 3-2.

"It's not an excuse but we have a very young side and need to add some experience.

"We have some very talented players but lack consistency.

"Around six of our first team are under 20 and with only two players over 30 our average age is 20.

"The other sides in the league have more experience so when we go to places like Yardley they are no more organised or skilful but are more physical and have older heads.

"We are not likely to lose anyone for next season and could even add players so maybe we will have that bit more experience we need."

A crucial factor for Redditch was the decision to void fixtures against Wombourne who withdrew on the eve of the season.

The decision by officials to award teams a point from a 0-0 draw in the defunct fixtures proved to be no more than a rumour and - with Redditch set down to play Wombourne on Saturday - brought a premature end to the Brosmgrove Road side's season.

With one round of fixtures to go Redditch are guaranteed a third place finish.