CHARNWOOD 1 WORCESTER NORTON 6

WORCESTER Norton women's first team are Midland Premier Hockey League champions.

In a style that exemplified why they are the best in the Midlands, they crushed third-placed Charnwood to illustrate how they have dominated their challengers this season.

Against a team who have always provided stiff opposition, Worcester needed a good start and in the third minute Tina Evans and Elaine Shepperd combined slickly for Evans to slap a firm shot past the keeper.

Shepperd also had a key role in the 10th minute when her free hit on the edge of the circle found Kate Fletcher in space in front of the 'keeper and her deflection did the rest.

Charnwood then put Worcester under pressure, forcing two sharp saves from Fiona Nash and also hitting the post.

Sadie Lapper, who had been outstanding in defence, was taken to hospital with a gashed head from a blow from an opponent's stick.

Eluded

But on 45 minutes Charlene Mason made a key pass and Draper eluded the defence to deceive the 'keeper from a narrow angle. Soon after Adams slipped a cross home on the far post.

The Charnwood 'keeper made three full length saves before at the sixth penalty corner Evans and Shepperd produced a carbon copy of their earlier effort to make it 5-0.

Two minutes later Becky Adams supplied a through ball for Draper who again put the 'keeper on the ground before scoring. A lapse allowed Charnwood a twice taken penalty corner which they converted in overtime.

With the National League play-offs beginning in April, it is vital for Worcester to maintain their focus. On Saturday they travel to Kettering who have slipped near to the relegation zone.

Squad: Nash, Bourne, Lapper, Handy, Wood, Smith, Fletcher, Evans, Shepperd, Adams, Draper, Mason.

WORCESTER NORTON 2nd 4

HARBORNE 0

Worcester took the honours in the battle of the top two in Worcestershire Division One.

After five minutes Suzanne Symmonds scored following an excellent passage of play. Worcester made it 2-0 midway through the half, Charlotte Tysler finishing off a short corner routine.

In the second half Julie Harwood continued her excellent scoring form by rounding the 'keeper and slotting home. Jackie Russell finished the rout, breaking clear of her marker to fire home.

Worcester seconds face a crucial game at Tenbury on Saturday. Victory in their final three games will see them as Worcestershire Division One champions and into the Midland League play-offs.

The thirds' fight to stave off relegation from Division One will be tested by second-placed Bromsgrove on Saturday at University College Worcester (3.30pm).

WORCESTER NORTON 4th 2 MALVERN 3

Worcester took time to settle and let in three goals in the first half in this Division Three game.

After the break Vicky Kovacs drove the ball forward from her position of right back and scored two impressive goals to lift the team, but they could not score again despite great pressure.

The fourths travel to Bournville thirds in Division Three on Saturday.

Sunday sees the U18s play National League Premier side Fyffes Leicester in English Hockey's U18 competition quarter-final at Nunnery Wood (2pm).

Worcester will be looking to England U18 star striker Kate Draper to take up the challenge along with seven others who play in the first team squad.